What to Do When You Get in a Wreck

Whether you have been driving for days, months, or years, there is always a risk of an accident when you're behind the wheel. If it does happen, you need to know how to respond. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that there are over six million car accidents each year, so it is important to be prepared.

Try to Be Calm, Efficient, and Organized

First and foremost is safety. Assess the scene of the accident and determine if anyone is hurt. If you are in a dangerous situation and you can move your vehicle, drive it off the road and out of harm's way. Turn on your flashers, also set up flares or reflective emergency triangles, if available, to alert other drivers of the danger ahead.

If the accident is severe, leave the vehicles in place and write down details, sketch the scene, or use your phone to take pictures of the scene, the vehicles, and important documents. Never leave the scene of the accident, even if it is a small fender bender. Make sure everyone is okay and call for medical assistance if needed. Take careful note of the location, weather conditions, and any other essential information you can collect.

Call the Police

Report the accident to the police. If it is a minor fender bender, they may not respond, but it is important to notify the authorities. If police are dispatched, get the officer(s) name, badge number, and contact information and ask for a copy of the police report.

Collect Data

In addition to taking pictures of the scene, writing notes, or sketching the scene, be sure you get photos of driver's licenses and write down names and insurance information. Collect VINs, license plates, year, color, make, and models of all cars involved. Record the date and time of the accident, photograph or video the scene while making sure to include skid marks, property damage, note side streets, and the direction each vehicle faced before and after the accident.

Avoid Discussions and Arguments

Don't engage in dialogue about fault or responsibility with other parties. If you are worried about the behavior and/or actions of anyone involved in the accident, stay in your car if it is safe and wait for authorities.

Make Other Important Calls

Call a tow truck if needed, and call your insurance company to report the accident and all the information you collected. Often you can report the accident and information online. Check your insurance card for instructions, or call the 800 number listed for additional instructions.

Visit Your Doctor

Although you may feel fine after an accident, some injuries will become more apparent within a couple of days. For safety and to be proactive, call your doctor and set up an appointment to be examined after an accident.

Be Prepared

Keep your insurance information in a location in the vehicle that is easy to get to. Check with your insurance agent directly or on their website to find out what reporting process they want you to complete. If there are forms and directions, keep copies in your vehicle to expedite your claim.

Choose an Auto Repair Shop You Trust

When reporting information to insurance companies, they may suggest a shop for your repairs. It is your choice as the customer which shop you want to use.

If you live in Oklahoma City, Edmond, or Norman, you can count on Bob Moore Collision Center for all your repair and auto body needs. Our staff is on hand to help you with the repair process, and we will work with you and your insurance company to get you back on the road quickly and efficiently.