What to do in case of a car collision
1. Check for injuries
- Make sure everyone is okay. If there are injuries, call an ambulance immediately.
- Some symptoms, like whiplash, may show up later.
- If anyone is injured, ask the traffic officer for an official injury report so you can claim the medical expenses included in your auto policy.
2. Assess the surroundings
- Check if the vehicle is in a dangerous situation (steep slope, smoke or gas, fire, high-speed traffic).
- If so, act quickly to protect everyone involved.
3. Gather key information
- Write down the license plate of the other vehicle as soon as possible, in case it drives away.
- If your car can't be moved, call roadside assistance and request a tow truck.
4. Document everything
- Take photos or videos of the scene: vehicles, points of impact, direction of travel, road signs, pavement markings, skid marks, etc.
5. Clear the road
- If it's safe and possible, move the vehicles off the road to avoid blocking traffic.
6. Contact your insurance provider
- Avoid making private agreements. There's no guarantee the other person will pay for the damages. Always involve your insurance company.
7. Use the FUD form if applicable
If there are only two vehicles involved, no injuries, no commercial use, no need for a tow truck, and one party accepts responsibility, you can use the Minor Accident Report Form (FUD). This document allows you to file a claim without needing a traffic officer.
8. Call the traffic officer if FUD doesn't apply
If more than two vehicles are involved, there are injuries, commercial vehicles, or no one accepts responsibility, call a traffic officer to file an official report.
General recommendations
- Stay calm. This guide will help you respond with confidence.
- Keep a printed copy of your valid insurance policy and your vehicle registration in the car.
- Always drive defensively and follow traffic laws.
- Stay alert using the six driver views: down (road hazards), forward (distance and traffic), up (falling objects), rearview mirror, and left and right side mirrors.
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