Be Prepared For A Car Accident: 4 Things To Know Before An Accident

The best time to prepare for a car accident is before one happens. Of course, you want to prevent car accidents, but in the event one happens, you need to be prepared to take action as soon as you can. Here are some important tips for you to follow if you're ever in a car accident.

Have An Emergency Kit In Your Glove Box

An emergency kit is one of the most important things you can keep in your car. This emergency kit should contain everything you will need in the event of an accident, including:

  • Throw-away phone – in case you can't locate yours after the accident
  • Pen and paper – to write down important details that you might forget later
  • Disposable camera – to take pictures of the accident scene
  • Emergency medical card – with your medical information on it, including allergies
  • Flashlight – in case the accident occurs at night

Have Law Enforcement Share Documentation

Unless it is a simple fender bender, you should wait to have law enforcement exchange information with the other driver. This is particularly important if you don't think you're responsible for the accident.

If you exchange information before law enforcement arrives, it can signify a verbal agreement between you and the other driver, which means that there might not be a police report issued. This can become a problem when you try to argue that the accident was not your fault.

Stay In Your Car If Possible

If your car is still drivable, you should move it to the side of the road. However, even if you've been able to move your car out of traffic, you should stay in your car until help arrives. Getting out of your car could put you in danger from oncoming traffic. Not only that, but you might have injuries that you're not aware of.

Contact An Attorney As Soon As Possible

To protect your rights and ensure that you receive the settlement you're entitled to, you need to contact an attorney as soon as possible. You should never try to negotiate with an insurance company before you've consulted with an attorney. Your attorney will make sure that your rights are protected and that you're adequately compensated for your losses.

You hope that you'll never be involved in an accident. However, you need to be prepared for the possibility. Keeping these tips in mind can protect you in the event of a car accident.


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