Be Prepared in case of a Car Accident with Guillory’s Collision
Carefully follow these steps after a car accident to keep everyone involved safe and protect yourself for insurance purposes.
1. Perform a spot health check of everyone involved.
Your first instinct after an accident may be to jump out of your car. Not so fast. Before you step out of your vehicle, assess your physical condition and make sure you're okay enough to move and walk around. Check on your passengers next. If you suspect that anyone's been hurt, call 911 immediately.
2. Get out of the line of danger.
Just because your vehicle is stopped doesn't mean that you're not in danger. Other vehicles may be moving in your vicinity. If your car is blocking traffic and is still operational, pull to the side of the road. If your car is too damaged to move, or if you think it might not be safe to operate, get everyone to safety (to the side of the road, the sidewalk or as far as necessary to ensure safety). Turn on your car's hazards and set out road flares to alert approaching traffic to your presence.
3. Call the police.
Even if no one is hurt and there is only minor damage to your vehicle. The police need to complete an official report legally. To obtain a copy for yourself or your insurance, ask the police officer for more information.
4. Document the Scene
Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicles involved and any damage or injuries. It’s also helpful to jot down notes so you have a detailed account of what happened. Photos can help protect you in case the other party tries to alter the scene, change the story of how the accident occurred, or leave before the police arrive.
5. Exchange insurance information with the other driver.
Take down the following information:
- The names and addresses of all drivers, passengers and accident witnesses.
- The other party’s driver's license number.
- The name and contact information (including phone number and address) of the other party's insurance company. Take note or policy numbers on the driver's insurance card.
- Take down the license plate number, make and model of all cars involved.
- The names and badge numbers for police on the scene. Also take down the same information for any emergency services workers present.
Review these safety tips to be prepared just in case you’re involved in a car accident. If you have other questions about insurance or auto collision repairs, check out our FAQ page.
