Being involved in a car accident might make you feel like your world’s turned upside down, but they happen. You may not know exactly what to do, but here’s why you should always be prepared for an emergency. We’ve put together a checklist to help you in the event of an accident and if the time ever comes, stay calm!
1. Check that Everyone is Ok
The severity of car accidents can range and be hard to judge right away. Do your best to stay as calm as possible and check that all passengers involved are ok. In the event that someone is injured, call 9-1-1. If you think you might have an injury that you do not notice immediately, get it checked out, it is better to be safe than sorry.
2. Move to a Safe Location
Accidents can happen anywhere. It is best to move vehicles to a safer location when on a highway or a busy road, if possible. Pulling over on the side of the road or a parking lot provides a safe environment for you and others when exchanging information and assessing the situation.
3. Call the Police
You may not know exactly what to do, if you are in a situation where you need road-side assistance, someone may be injured, or you need help sorting things out with other drivers, call the police. You should be prepared to file a police report and keep any paperwork you receive which may be helpful later on.
4. Exchange Information
Following an accident, make sure to take the other driver’s contact information, license plate number, and insurance. It is helpful to to take note of the vehicle make and model and take photos of any damage caused by the event. In the situation where witnesses are present, take down their contact information in case it is needed later on.
5. Check if your Vehicle is Safe to Drive
After an accident, take a look at your vehicle for any damage. Even what appears to be “minor” can be serious, do not hold off on getting it checked out. Not all damage is visible, and even if it seems ok, it is best to take your vehicle to a collision repair shop for a professional opinion. If your vechile is unfit for driving, call a towing service and if you are able to drive safely, set up an appointment with a repair shop as soon as possible.
6. Call a Repair Shop You Trust
We recommend reaching a repair shop that you trust before contacting insurance. You can trust your appraiser to take care of you, and most do, but they also work for an insurance company and are responsible for them. This might mean that some decisions made by your appraiser may be in favor of the company and are not what is best for you as a customer.
Trusted repair shops differ from insurance, and their only responsibility is to you as a customer. If you need help with insurance, call Reliable Collision at (401) 823-4770. We are here to take care of your needs and provide guidance that will benefit YOU. Read more about why you should turn to your repair shop before an insurance company for appraisals in our article by clicking here. Once you’ve contacted your local repair shop, you will likely still need to file a claim with your insurance company. They may be able to aid in covering expenses such as towing, rental vehicles, and repairs. Let an auto body handle the appraisal of damages for an accurate number. Feel free to call us at (401) 823-4770 if you have any questions, and we will be happy to help you in any way we can!
If you find yourself in need of auto body repair, be prepared to call Reliable Collision Repair.
At Reliable Collision Repair, we get that accidents happen. We understand it can be stressful when you need a repair, even for minor damages. That’s why we are here to do everything it takes to get you back on the road. We handle everything from handling the appraisal to dealing with insurance, providing rentals, and towing services to help you every step of the way!
As a class-A autobody shop, Reliable Collision can allow you to rest assured that your vehicle is in great hands. We are happy to get your vehicle repaired and ready to be back on the road in excellent condition. Give us a call at (401) 823-4770 or schedule an appointment if you are ever in need of autobody repairs to your vehicle.
