Be Prepared

 

• Carry a set of cones, warning triangles, or emergency flares in your trunk to help alert traffic.

• It also helps to have a pen and a card with any relevant medical information for you and your family.

 

Immediately After an Accident

 

• Take a deep breath and stay calm.

• Check for injuries; call an ambulance when in doubt.

• If accident is minor, move cars to a safe place, out of traffic.

• Turn on your vehicle's hazard lights and use cones, warning triangles or flares for safety.

• Call the police, even if the accident is minor.

• Notify your insurance agent immediately.

 

Other Important Tips

 

• Do not sign any document unless it's for the police or your insurance agent.

• Make immediate notes about the accident, including specific damages to all vehicles involved, witness information, etc.

• If the name on an auto registration is different than the driver, jot down the relationship.

• Be polite, but don't tell anyone the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.

• State only the facts, and limit your discussion of the accident to the police and your insurance agent.

• If possible, don't leave the accident scene before the police and other drivers do.