You’re in shock, your hazard lights are on, and a tail back has developed behind your damaged vehicle. You’ve seen numerous car collisions in the past as you drove away, speeding along the clear road that forms past accident scenes. Today, however, it’s your turn. You’re the victim, and the person who caused the accident may be feeling similarly anxious. Despite this, it’s best not to panic, but take action and ensure the car damage is catered for by following these steps:
Calm Down
It may be unsettling to experience a car crash. Take deep breaths and relax so you can be better placed to deal with the issue. Check for any injuries on yourself or the other motorist, if there are any injuries call an ambulance.
You can call e-plus ambulance on +254 717 714938 or toll free on 1199, St John’s Ambulance can be reached on 0721611555 / 0733930000.
Call the Police
Don’t let the other driver talk you out of calling. Don’t agree to any arrangements that don’t involve making an official accident report. Even if the damage is minor.
Take videos and pictures
In this situation, there is no such thing as too many pictures. Capture a video of the accident scene as it is right after the collision. Include important factors such as the number plate of each vehicle, and the position of the cars, especially if the other car’s position supports a claim of unsafe or dangerous driving.
Move your vehicle to a safer location
If your car is still able to move, you and the person who hit you should drive off the road to a safe place where any discussions or settlements can take place without obstructing other vehicles. This is important more so at night as the cars if left in the middle of the road can lead to a pile up which would make matters worse.
Also ensure to have your life saver out so as to warn other drivers that there is an accident ahead.
Look for witnesses
A witness can be anyone from the passengers in your car, to other drivers or pedestrians. If witnesses stop, ensure you obtain their full contact information.
Mediate or Settle
Once you call the police, it’s important that you obtain the other driver’s insurance, license plate number, ID, full names, address, and contacts. You should also note down the vehicle’s color, make and model.
Also, insist on asking for the email address, and names of friends or relatives you can contact if you’re unable to reach the driver.
If the other driver accepts his/her mistake, he should write down and sign a statement indicating that he/she was the one who hit you at the concerned place and time, and is willing to pay for the damage.
If hurt
If you’ve been injured in the accident, you should file a personal injury claim for compensation. To have a legitimate claim, there should be a police report indicating that the other driver caused the collision, and as a result, you suffered tangible damages. Tangible damages include:
- Injuries which required medical or therapeutic treatment
- Wages you lost while treating and recovering from your injuries
- Pain and suffering related to all the above
Notify your Insurer
After the accident endeavor to contact and inform your insurer in reasonable time.