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What To Do If You Are In An Accident

It can be a real nightmare to be involved in a vehicular accident. But in case you are, the first thing to remember is not to panic. Instead, try to be prepared ahead of time. The following thoughts will help.

It is always recommended to be prepared for such situations. Let’s see how you can deal with an accident easily according to the Law Office of Julie Johnson:

Don’t Panic, No Matter What

Never panic. Getting worked up will make matters worse.
Dire scenarios are a test of your mettle. Keep calm and think about solutions.

If you become upset, passengers traveling with you will also panic, which will be even more unhelpful. Keep your patience and strength together.

Keep your head cool and think about the steps to be taken immediately.

Strategize and Call for Help

After you understand what exactly has gone wrong and the extent of the problem, call for help.

The best thing to do is to immediately call 911 from your cell phone. If you aren’t carrying a cell, ask passengers, bystanders or others involved. If there is no phone, take a deep breath and face the situation courageously.

Never Ever Get Involved in an Argument

Do not argue or fight with the other person involved in the accident. He is also human and is sailing on the same boat.

It may be true that it isn’t your fault. The other person may be at fault, but that doesn’t mean that you should flare-up and start an argument.

Document and Capture the Scene

If you have a pen and paper handy, write down the number of the other car involved, or take pictures of everything that might help.

This will help when the police ask for it. Such things also come in handy when filing for insurance and claiming your insurance money.

This brings us to the most important aspect of keeping all of your insurance and car papers in one place where you can get to them easily.

Organize Your Documents Regularly

Many people are careless and don’t bother to keep the documents in one place in the vehicle or do not make it a habit to update them.

This is an incorrect practice which can put you in bigger trouble and a complete mess.

Insurance is not only required for repairs and to show to the authorities, but also to make necessary claims.

It is also suggested to capture a photo of the license plate of the other car. This will work as evidence in your favor if the other party is at fault.

These things are taken care of if you are not injured. But what needs to be done in a scenario where you are?

Safeguard Yourself and Your Body

In case you are injured in a car accident, first, safeguard and protect yourself. Your vehicle can always be repaired.

When you call 911, report all known injuries to the dispatcher.

If the situation calls for first-aid and you are able, take care of yourself and others who are injured.

Always keep a first-aid box in your car, complete with standard medications and bandages.

Park Your Vehicle in A Safe Place.

In the middle of the chaos, it's common for people to be confused and flounder. Many don’t think about parking their vehicles in a safe and isolated place after an accident.

You may have encountered backed-up vehicles stuck bumper to bumper on a busy road because of an accident ahead. The accident victims and vehicles can be seen stuck on the road itself, even if the victims are able to drive and park their vehicles in a safe place. This is extremely dangerous.

It is easier to take note and analyze the situation when the cars are parked to the side.

The people involved can easily analyze the situation and take the best recourse.

But this is not what you may encounter.

Sometimes people stop and don’t move at all (even if it’s the middle of a busy road).
This is not only foolish but absolutely wrong. Not only will you put yourself in further danger by doing so, but you are also putting other people’s lives and property in jeopardy. Exercise prudence. Take pictures quickly if you are able and then immediately park your vehicles to the side.

Extend Help To the Other Party as Well

Being worried and concerned about only oneself isn’t human as well.

Check to see if the other person involved needs your help. If so, help to the best of your ability. If the other party is injured, offer first-aid (that will be possible only if you have it, so be organized and keep that first aid box in your car).

Accidents are never easy.

It can be a very devastating situation to find yourself and your dear machine in.

Keep calm and react with a level head.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes.

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