Even if everyone is unhurt, the moments after a car accident can be jarring and confusing. Most people find themselves struggling to think of all the information they should get before the scene clears.
Consider writing down the following list and keeping it handy should the odds not be in your favor while driving home from Woodman’s.
Everyone’s names, phone numbers and addresses
This is usually the one thing people remember to do, but it bears repeating. Record the make, model and color of the other vehicle(s) as well.
Take a lot of pictures
We all have a tiny, sophisticated camera in our pockets these days, so make good use of it. Take photos of all vehicles involved from every angle. Don’t forget to include license plates.
Contact information for the responding officers
Report anything worse than a bumper tap to the police. This is legally required in some states. Be sure to get the names, department and badge numbers of the responding police officers for follow up. Hopefully, you won’t need this, but better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.
If the police can’t come to the scene, it’s recommended that you go to the nearest police station and file a report.
A copy of the accident report
The insurance people will want a copy of the accident report.
Talk to witnesses, if applicable
This may seem like overkill and even if the facts of the accident seem cut and dried, it doesn’t hurt to talk to people who witnessed the accident and collect contact information, assuming any of them hang around. Hopefully, you won’t need to call them, but better safe than sorry.
