what to do in accident

What to do if you get into an accident

A checklist to help ease Your Mind

It 'pretty hard to remember what to do after the initial shock and surprise of an accident. Car accidents happen to many responsible drivers. If you are involved in a car accident, follow these tips to ensure you are prepared.

In the confusion of the moment, you can forget a few things. You should print this checklist and keep it in the car accident. In this way, you have a reference for what to do if you are involved in a fender-bender.

Take Safety Measures

• Stop your vehicle and move it to a safe nearby location.
• Check to see if anyone is injured. Call 911 for medical assistance.
• Do not leave the scene of the accident.
• Make sure everyone involved moves to a safe location.
• Contact the police. They will let you know if an officer needs to be present at the scene.

Collect Information

Exchange contact information with everyone involved, including:

• Name
• Address (including email)
• Phone number(s)

Get the following information about all vehicles involved:

• Year, make, and model
• License plate number
• Insurance carrier
• Insurance policy number

Gather contact information from any witnesses at the scene, including:

• Name
• Address (including email)
• Phone number(s)

If a police officer is present, get the following information from him or her:

• Name
• Phone number
• Police report number

Document the Accident

If you have a camera, take photos of:

• Damage to your vehicle
• The accident scene
• People involved in the accident

Report the accident online to GEICO or call 1-800-841-3000

Communication Guidelines

• Don't panic
• Do not admit fault
• Cooperate with police
• Remain calm and polite

Prepare for a Car Accident—Before it Happens

If you get into an auto accident, it will help if you have the following items on hand. Make sure to always have these either in your wallet or in your vehicle:

• Your insurance ID card
• Your vehicle registration
• A list of emergency contacts
• A medical card listing allergies to any medication, or special conditions
• Pens or pencils
• A note pad
• Flashlight
• Flares
• First-aid kit
• Blanket
• Jumper cables
• Rags or paper towels
• Trash bags
• Cell phone
• Disposable camera (if your cell phone does not have one.)

If you are prepared, and you know what to do in an accident, it will be easier to remain calm and collected when a mishap occurs.