Accidents happen, and the chances are at some point in your life you’ll be involved or exposed to one in a car.
This is a guide for you on what to do after a car accident, so keep calm and buckle up. Picture it now; you’re in peak hour traffic on your daily route to work, suddenly and unexpectedly the car in front of you hits the brakes hard from 40km/h, you react quickly and get your foot onto the brake pedal, but you can barely wipe off any speed before it happens.
Your front bumper is saying hello to the car in front.
If you’re on a busy road, safely get out, take a couple of quick photos that clearly show what the damage to both cars is, then get back in and pull to the side of the road or into a side street out of harm’s way.
If the cars aren’t in any shape to be moved or relocated by you and the others involved. Get out and get yourself to safety away from the accident until help arrives. Note, that you shouldn’t admit to being at fault. That is what the insurance companies are to determine.
Their drivers licence is also usually required by the insurers. If you were at fault, you’ll need to give those same details to the other person involved.
The insurance company will usually organise for a tow truck to collect the car if necessary. Otherwise, you should call for roadside assistance such as RACQ. If you’re a member they will provide you with discounted towing rates.
After the event, do also keep a note of any pain that you might be feeling. Sometimes some injuries don’t always present themselves immediately after an accident. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, it might be worthwhile visiting your doctor.
The best-case scenario when driving is to of course avoid an accident all together. Be aware of who and what is around you, this will let you react to any change in the circumstances.