There is a first time to everything, and often, it can be nerve-wracking. Due to an unfortunate event, you got into a car accident for the first time probably from a driving error. As this is your first time getting into a car accident, you do not know what you need to do. Do not worry, in this article, I will guide you on what you need to know and to do when you get into a car accident. I wish I knew this when I got into a car accident for the first time.
What You Need To Know
1. Take a few pictures of the accident for documentation purposes
It does not matter if you are right or wrong as you are innocent before proven guilty. The first thing you need to do is to take pictures of the collision situation and the damage to your car so that you can make a police report for your insurance claim. Keep in mind to take a picture of the other party’s car number plate as well for documentation purposes. The purpose of doing all this is that if the other party is proven to be at fault, you will get to claim their insurance.
2. Move your car away to a safer place
The next step is to move your car away to a safer place. Unless your car suffers from heavy damage, it is advisable to move your car to the side of the road to ensure that your vehicle does not block the road. This will also allow you to come out of your care safely.
3. Never allow third-party car services to tow your car away
You should never let third-party car services tow your vehicle with the promise of repairing your car, no matter what the circumstances may be. Companies like this one can be dishonest, charging a significantly greater fee than an authorised car repair facility.
4. Stay Calm
It is important to stay calm in a situation like this. With a clear head and mind, you will know what to do in this situation such as taking pictures of the incident and collecting any information. Stay strong and firm if the other party is intimidating you. Show that you cannot be intimidated easily.
5. Exchange Information
After taking pictures of the accident scene, it is time to exchange information. You will need the other party’s details if you wish to claim insurance. You will need his name, address, IC number and driving licence number. Do not forget to get his handphone number if your insurance company needs to contact him. Remember to get the contact information of his car insurance company if you wish to claim insurance against his insurance policy.
6. Make a Police Report
If you are looking to claim your car insurance, be sure to make a police report within 24 hours as it is mandatory for insurance claims. Additionally, making a police report will also help to protect yourself from unexpected third-party automobile claims or personal injury claims by submitting a police report.
7. Call your car dealership to send someone to pick up your car
In the worst-case scenario where your car is badly damaged till it is not safe to drive or undrivable, call your car dealership to have someone sent to tow your car for you. For example, car companies like Perodua or Lexus will offer free towing services to tow your car to the nearest respective authorised service centres. Their number will be placed on your road tax sticker on your windshield. It is better to let a professional handle your car compared to an unauthorised third-party shop.
8. Never settle for anything less than what you deserve
Never accept any cash from the other party to get your car fixed. If you are unsure how severe your damage is, it is better to make a police report and claim the insurance. The sum they give you may not be enough to cover the whole cost of the repairs. Furthermore, as this is your first time getting into a car accident, it is advisable to follow the usual protocol.
Extra Note
Never give in
You will never know what kind of people you will face when you get into a car accident. If you do happen to be incredibly unlucky to meet an unreasonable person, do not give in to the person’s demands. By following the person’s orders, you have already lost the game mentally as the person will use this opportunity to push you around. Stand firm and do not give in. If the person refuses to cooperate, call the police immediately. There is no point in dealing with the person anymore. As such, let the authority handle the situation.
Livestream / Record the incident
This is not a must, but another way you can do to defend yourself is by live-streaming or recording the incident if the person is threatening you. With that, you can use this as evidence when you make a police report later.
To Conclude
It can be scary when you get into an accident for the first time as you are clueless about what needs to be done. Just take a deep breath, relax your mind and follow these steps. Be sure to stay firm if the other party is being unreasonable. I wish I knew this when I got into a car accident for the first time, as it was not a pleasant experience for me. Hopefully, with this article, I am able to assist you in what you need to know and do during a car accident such as the dos and don’ts. With that being said, drive safely on the road and be constantly alert and aware of your surroundings.
