Keep Control in a Fender Bender

Car accidents can happen anytime, any day, and in any driving situation.  Even the safest drivers are at risk of accidents. Even if an accident is minor, say a slow speed fender bender, they can often create confusion. The most important thing to do is stay calm; this will help immensely to keep control of the situation.

The first step, an obvious one, is to make sure you and your passengers are ok, if possible move as far off the roadway as you can, and turn on your hazards. The next step is to call 911; even in a minor accident where no one is visibly injured, it is important to complete a police report. Look over any damage to the vehicles involved, but never admit fault. Let the police and insurance companies determine this.

Always approach the other driver involved in a calm manner. Although this can be difficult, as an accident can ruin your day, yelling at someone will do no good, and only make a bad situation worse. Vise versa, if the other driver is irate and rude, do your best not to bow to his level. Sometimes responding with a calm voice will make them realize how they are acting. Once the police arrive exchange vital information with the other driver involved in the car accident. Write down the name, address, phone number and license numbers of all drivers and witnesses, particularly those who were not riding in a vehicle involved in the accident. Ask for the name of the insurer and policy number of all drivers involved in the car accident.

Lastly, contact your insurance company and report the claim.  The sooner your insurance company knows about the accident, the sooner it can start working to resolve your claim. Fender benders can be scary and overwhelming. Keeping your cool is the most important step.  Remebering to get the others driver information, calling police, and contacting your insurance company are the key steps to a resolution.