Did you just get a new car that you just can’t stop driving around? That’s all fun and games, but have you thought of what could happen to your new shiny car if you got into an accident? Many drivers don’t take into consideration that they might be involved in an accident at any given time and place, sometimes even if you’re safely parked! There are certain things you need to know in situations like these, so here’s how you can get prepared for the possibility of car accidents.
1. Know Your Safety Features
One of the most crucial aspects that should be taken into consideration when getting a car is its safety features. Without these features, it’ll be like walking straight towards an accident. However, many people do make sure all those features are in their car but don’t have the first clue about what they are and how they function. To be prepared for an accident, you should know what your car can do for you and how you can avoid as much damage as possible with those features. This means it’s time to dust off the car’s manual and do a little light reading.
2. Keep An Emergency Kit
Now most accidents are minor in damage to both drivers, passengers, and vehicles, however, you should still be prepared for whatever comes. An accident emergency kit can go a long way in a moment of distress when you need a certain item straight away or when you’re not thinking straight from the trauma. Your emergency kit should include a first-aid kit for injuries, a flashlight, batteries, blankets, a notepad with a pen, a list of medical conditions you have, any medication you take for the benefit of first responders.
3. Understand Your Insurance Policy
Let’s be honest, we all get car insurance policies because we know it’s the right thing to do but do we have any idea what they are? If your answer is no, like most people’s, then it’s time to change that now. One of the most important things to do after an accident is contacting your insurance company to get suitable damage compensation. So it’s only right you should understand your policy; what it covers, what it doesn’t, and any out-of-pocket expenses. This will come in handy in case of an accident with you knowing exactly what you’re covered for.
4. Get An Attorney
Many drivers who get into car accidents think they can settle insurance claims directly with the company, which is true; you can, but you won’t be getting your full piece of the pie. Insurance companies usually work for their own self-interest by minimizing settlements as much as possible. The attorneys over at advise that it is important to contact your lawyer immediately so that they can walk you through what you need to do to ensure that you are able to have your compensation. A car accident lawyer is trained to fight for the insurance claims rightfully owed you after an unfortunate event like a road crash. Because they are conversant with the legal and insurance terrain, especially where claims are concerned, it would be best to leave this in their hands. While the law does not prevent you from working on your own claims, you want to avoid a possible scenario where you receive less than you are entitled to. An attorney can make you fully understand the process of an ICBC claim or a personal injury claim and give you a settlement that compensates all physical, mental, and property damage.
5. Remember Accident Procedures
To be completely prepared in case of an accident, you have to know and remember what facts to gather and actions to follow. For example, after you’ve made sure everyone in the vehicles involved is okay, you have to call the authorities to report the incident. You should also immediately take pictures of the collision and license plate. If you don’t have access to a camera, write down all the details that an insurance company may need about the other car. Make sure you also get contact information from witnesses then proceed to get medical care and contact your insurance company and attorney.
6. Locate Auto Body Shops
Whether it’s just a simple fender-bender or much worse, your car will be needing some repair work. It’s important to be prepared by locating multiple auto body shops in your area so you go to the closest one in case of serious damage. Other than that, even if your insurance is paying for the repair, it’s best to have your trusted mechanic to do the job. Even more so if your car isn’t totaled because some mechanics will use that to increase the cost.
Realistically speaking, nobody likes to think about getting into an accident, minor or not, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. It’s important to remember that it’s a possible situation that comes with owning and driving a car that you just have to prepare for. This way you can rest assured that if it does happen, you’ll have everything you need and know exactly what steps to take. Just try to always remain calm and collected and put your safety and others’ first.
