What to Do When You’ve Had a Car or Van Accident
Car or van accidents can happen at any time and to the best of drivers. People who have been on the road for decades without anything untoward happening can still run the risk of accidents or damage occurring.
For experienced as well as new drivers, it is advisable to take a minute to consider the things you should do in case of an accident. Some words of advice are not only meant as reassurance or guidance but remind you of your legal and car or van insurance obligations.
Stay Calm and Remember the Details
Sudden accidents can unsettle you, whether in the case of major or minor accidents. Staying calm is the best first tip as it will help you deal with the accident’s aftermath rationally and efficiently. Regardless of whether you personally caused the accident or not, you are legally obliged to stop and either call the police and/or ambulance or exchange your details with the other involved parties.
What Details Should You Exchange and How to Report an Accident
The details you exchange with the other involved parties are your name and address, the names and addresses of the other drivers and the registration plates of your vehicles.
Should you not exchange details, you need to report the accident to the police by the next day. You should report the accident to your insurer, even if you do not want to file a claim.