6 Steps to take following a car accident
Fender bendersare a common occurrence. They happen to new and seasoned drivers, in the city and in the country and on rainy days or sunny days (not to mention snowy days). The team at Auto Value knows this better than anyone, and we have a good understanding of what to do in case of an accident. Keep reading to learn the six steps to take following a collision.
- Ensure that no one is injured
Once the vehicles involved in the collision are stationary, verify that no one has been hurt. When an injury has occurred, call 911 immediately. Note that the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) will compensate you for medical expenses, home care expenses or loss of revenue, when applicable. Even if you’re at fault for the accident, the compensation policy applies.
- Move your vehicle to a safe spot
If you’re fit to operate your vehicle and you can safely do so, pull it over to a safe area. Otherwise, turn on your hazard lights and, if possible, put down traffic cones or flares.
- Judge whether a traffic violation was committed
Was the car that collided with you going too fast? Does the driver appear to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs? Did he or she pass you illegally? Was he or she texting while driving? If you have the slightest suspicion that a traffic violation took place, don’t wait to contact the police.
- Fill out an accident report with the other driver
Even if you and the other driver are feeling less than chummy with one another, it’s essential that the two of you fill out an accident report. If neither one of you has this document on hand (even though you should always keep one in the glove compartment), download an accident reporting app on your mobile device. Also, make sure to exchange all the necessary information: names, addresses, emails, telephone numbers, and licence plate numbers and insurance information.
- Document the scene of the accident with photos
When you can safely do so, visually document the accident. Take photos of both your vehicle and the other vehicle involved and get a number of different angles of the damage. This will be extremely useful for your insurance claim.
- Talk with your insurance company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible, no matter how minor the damage to your vehicle is.
At Auto Value, our experienced technicians fix up vehicles involved in fender benders on a daily basis. If your car needs to be repaired, contact a Certified Service Centre near you.
Service is the difference. We get it!