On the Road
When an Accident Happens, What Will You Do?
In the time it takes you to read this article, a few hundred vehicles across the country will have been scraped, scratched, and dented. Even the most cautious driver may not be able to avoid the inevitable "fender-bender" or worse. But if you should find yourself in the midst of an accident scene, no matter how chaotic, try to remember the following:
Remain calm
Don't panic. Try to stay calm in order to accurately assess any injuries or damage. Get help for anyone who has been injured, and stay clear of the road so as not to expose yourself to additional danger.
Call the police
Contact local police authorities as soon as possible to report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem and no matter how vehemently the other driver insists that nothing is wrong. If you do not understand what local laws require, ask the police about them.
Get all relevant information
Write down the other driver's name, address, home and work telephone numbers, driver's license number, and the name of his or her insurance company. If the car is registered to another person, record that person's address and telephone number. Write down the names of witnesses (pedestrians, other drivers, or passengers in your car or in the other driver's car). And, finally, be sure to include the location of the accident and any special hazards, such as construction work or faulty traffic lights, that might have contributed to the accident.
Do not suggest the accident was your fault
When all the evidence has been sorted out by experts, it may become clear that you were not at fault, but an emotional statement at the accident scene may be used against you in a lawsuit. And don't disclose the limits of your insurance coverage. It is not uncommon for another driver to insist there was no injury, then later file a claim for damages.
Report the accident to Amica as soon as possible
The sooner we are notified of an accident, the better job we can do of settling a claim. Delays mean that crucial evidence may be lost. A faulty traffic light may have been repaired or a construction hazard removed.
We hope you never find yourself in an accident, but if you do, Amica wants you to be prepared. Knowing what to do in an accident situation may ease a particularly harrowing experience.
Driving Safely Is Your Best Defense
One of the best ways to avoid an auto accident is to practice defensive driving. Here are some tips:
- Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Never exceed the posted speed limit.
- Maintain a following distance of at least two seconds between your car and the car ahead.
- Expect other drivers to make mistakes at intersections.
- Be aware of potential road hazards such as potholes, construction barriers, or stalled vehicles.
- When driving on a highway, be prepared for drivers to change lanes suddenly.
- Do not let your emotions dominate your driving.
- Do not drive when you are tired.
- Drive a well-maintained vehicle.
Source: Defensive Driving, The Best Offense, National Safety Council
