It’s something every motorist dreads, but with so many vehicles on the road, it only takes a little carelessness to cause an accident, and while no one wants to be involved in a collision, you need to be prepared for the event. If you are ever unfortunate enough to be involved in a car accident, there are some important points to remember.
- Do Report the Accident – This is the first thing you should do after you and any of your passengers are safely out of the vehicle. Certainly call your insurance company, and of course, medical services if they are at all required.
- Do take down the names and addresses of everyone involved, including witnesses. This should be done as soon as practically possible, as in the event of any failure to accept liability, you will be able to contact the people involved.
- Do Call a Reliable Towing Service – If your car is not driveable, you will need a tow truck to transport the car to a repair workshop, and if you happen to be in Western Australia, a tow truck in Perth from Executive Towing Services will quickly collect the vehicle and take it to a reliable repair company. This established car towing service is both reliable and affordable, and they even have access to a tilt tray truck, which makes for an easy collection and delivery.
- Do Take Photos – This is important, and very easy with modern smartphones. Make sure you take shots from different angles, and include all the vehicles involved, as this could be evidence in any legal dispute that might follow. Video is also a good idea, and if you have a passenger who is able to film, ask them to record as much as possible. You may not need this evidence, but if you have it, it might be the difference between winning and losing.
- Don’t Move your Vehicle – Unless ordered to by the authorities. Moving the car could invalidate post-accident enquiries, so leave it where it is.
- Don’t Engage in Conversation – This relates to others involved in the accident, as saying anything might incriminate you, even if it wasn’t your fault. Stay calm and never apologise, as this could be regarded as an admission of guilt. Many people have said something when they were in shock, and this could be used in a court of law in the event the conflict is not settled amicably.
- Don’t Agree to Settlement terms – At least not until you have spoken to a lawyer, who you should call if there is any doubt over liability.
- Do Contact a reliable car repair company – They might be able to recover the vehicle, otherwise arrange for a tow truck to take the car to their repair shop.
While no one wants to be involved in an accident, it can happen to anyone, and if you are prepared, things might work out a little better than if you are not.
