When facing a crash that someone else caused, your first instinct may be to panic. In the moments after this event, taking the time to assess the situation and protect yourself and any passengers is key.
Following certain steps after a car crash can help you stay safe even if the scene around is chaotic.
Move the vehicles away
According to the AARP, getting your car and any other vehicles involved in the crash away from the road is important after checking to make sure everyone’s physically alright. Not only can moving the cars away help you and the other driver talk privately, but it can also prevent another accident if they are in the middle of the road.
Make sure to interact politely
Knowing the difference between what you need to talk about and what you should not say is key. When you feel overwhelmed, you may potentially forget to ask about information such as the other driver’s home address or policy number.
However, staying safe also includes noticing when a driver is suffering from road rage or could likely harm you. You should always stay on the scene and make sure to not overshare or try to take the blame for the accident in this discussion.
Notice any irregular pains
In some cases, you could fail to notice any signs of injuries until a day or two after the accident. Although you may not immediately go to the hospital on the same day as the crash, you should still visit a doctor at some point.
Noticing these safety steps and following them can help you defend yourself in a terrifying situation. Staying calm and collected can give you the clarity of mind you need at this time.