10 Preparations For An Automobile Accident

1. Prepare Ahead of Time
Of course it is easier said than done, but drivers should prepare ahead of time for a car accident. In his or her automobile, a driver should keep all documents required by law in Connecticut (such as proof of car insurance and vehicle registration), a pen and paper for taking notes, and information regarding special medical needs, such as allergies or other conditions that may require special care. I used to advise individuals to keep a disposable camera in the car. While this is still not a bad idea, the proliferation of smartphones with photographic capability has rendered this suggestion rather archaic. Furthermore, it is advisable to keep a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a set of cones or warning triangles, and/or emergency flares in your trunk.

2. Know Your Insurance Coverage
The entire insurance process is much easier if you know the details of your coverage before you get in an accident. It is important not to wait until a collision before you find out whether your injuries, towing expenses, rental car, etc. will be covered. Furthermore, it is advisable to maintain a level of insurance coverage above the minimum required by law. While, I certainly understand the incentive to save some money and buy low cost auto insurance, many personal injuries deriving from car accidents exceed Connecticut’s minimum insurance requirement. According to Connecticut law, if a person causes damage to another person or property in excess of his or her insurance coverage, then that person may be liable for the excess. Therefore, it is important to maintain enough insurance to cover potential debts, otherwise your home or bank account could be put at risk.

3. Remain Calm and Civil
Being in a car accident can be frustrating, nerve-wracking, and even life threatening. Still, it is important to maintain a level of civility with the other driver in an effort to gain their respect, and potentially leniency. Remaining calm and civil also helps a party to deal with the police.

4. Stay Away From Traffic
Drivers involved in minor accidents with no serious injuries should move their cars to the side of the road and out of the way of oncoming traffic. Leaving cars parked in the middle of the road or busy intersection can result in additional accidents and/or injuries. If a car cannot be moved, drivers and passengers should remain in the cars with seatbelts fastened for everyone’s safety until help arrives. Make sure to turn on hazard lights and set out cones, flares or warning triangles if possible.

5. Take Photographs
Many people have smart-phones with cameras nowadays. Use it. If you do not have a phone with a camera, use a conventional camera, or keep a disposable camera in your car in case your phone’s battery is dead. After an accident, take as many pictures as you can to document the accident. Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the accident so that you can make your case to a claims adjuster. If you do not have a camera available, write down on paper how the accident occurred and describe the damage.

6. Exchange Information
After the accident, exchange the following information with the other driver: name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver license number and license plate number for the driver and the owner of each vehicle. If the driver’s name is different from the name of the insured, establish what the relationship is and take down the name and address for each individual. Also make a written description of each car, including year, make, model and color — and the exact location of the collision and how it happened. Finally, be polite but don’t tell the other drivers or the police that the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.

7. File an Accident Report
Although it may be inconvenient, drivers should file a vehicle accident report with the police, especially if they believe they were not at fault for the accident. A police report often helps insurance companies speed up the claims process.

8. Identify Witnesses
If the matter must go to court, it is important to know who can serve as a witness. After an accident, get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the crash. Do this as quickly as possible because people who witness collisions will typically only stop for a short time. Other motorists, passengers or pedestrians can be critical witnesses. Get their name and phone number.

9. Do Not Discuss Fault
Do not blame the other driver even if they were clearly at fault. It may just start an argument. However, if the other driver admits it was their fault, make a note of precisely what you remember them saying. Even if you feel you may have been partially at fault, do not say anything that admits your feeling. “Fault” is often a complex determination based on the facts and complicated laws. Leave that issue for the police to decide – or an attorney, if necessary.

10. Contact Your Insurance Agent
All insurance policies require you to notify your insurance company. Usually this must be done shortly after the accident. Unnecessary delay in telling your insurance company about the crash can result in a denial of your claim.
If you have been in a car accident in Connecticut, whether or not it is your fault, it is important that you hire an experienced personal injury attorney who can help to protect your legal rights.