Car accidents are a part of life. Despite our
best efforts to follow road rules and use safe driving techniques, some
accidents are unavoidable. Being in an accident can be a highly stressful
situation and we are often forced to make quick decisions post-accident that
might not always be the best ones. To help alleviate some of the stress
associated with accidents, NYCM Insurance has put together some steps to help
you through the situation.
Step 1: Stop the car
Driving away from the scene is never the right
option. Remain where you are and...
Step 2: Stay calm
If you hit someone or something, it’s a body’s
natural reaction to panic. The trick is to try to control the panic and remain
calm. When you panic you don’t think clearly and will only cause further damage
to the situation. Try breathing techniques and don’t be afraid to give yourself
a second to relax before dealing with the situation at hand.
Step 3: Call immediately for medical assistance if there are injuries
When necessary, call for medical personnel to
properly care for anyone injured in the accident. Even minor injuries are worth
getting checked by a medical professional.
Step 4: Move your car to the side of the road
If an accident occurs in the middle of the
street it is best to move your car to the nearest available space away from
traffic. Once you move your car, turn on your hazard lights so that other cars
can move around you. If it is not possible to move your car, then turn your
hazard lights on to signal other drivers that your car is stopped in the
roadway.
Step 5: Call the police
Once your car is out of traffic and hazards
are on, call the police. When the police get to the scene, ask where you can
get a police report of the accident. If you have a copy of the accident report,
it will make the insurance process easier.
Step 6: Refrain from talking about the accident
Even if you believe that the accident may have
been your fault, it is important not to accept full responsibility right away.
Recall the details as they occurred to the police and allow them to come up
with their own conclusions as to where the fault lies.
Step 7: Record the details of the scene
It is important to document the scene by
taking pictures so that there is no doubt about how the scene looked at the time
the accident occurred. Remember to take down the names of other drivers at the
scene, license plate numbers and car make/models, their insurance information
and contact details of any witnesses to the accident.
Step 8: Contact Your Insurance Company
File your insurance claim. If you are with
NYCM, you can call 800-234-6926 24 hours a day or submit your claim and photos
through our mobile app (search ‘NYCM Insurance’ in your favorite app store). Be
prepared to explain the details of the accident and answer questions so your claim is filed as efficiently as
possible.
