It happens to the best of us. You’re driving down Virginia Street, minding your own business when BAM! Some jerk behind you is sending a text and forgot to brake, rear-ending you! Now what?

  1. First thing’s first: Do a quick self-assesment. Are you okay? Chances are, you are probably a little shaken, so take a few deep breathes and collect yourself. If you suspect you or any of your passengers have any physical injuries, call an ambulance immediately. If it’s safe to do so, make sure the other driver is alright too.
  2. Move Outta The Way! Chances are you are blocking traffic, so if you are able to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the ride or nearest parking lot. Make sure to communicate to the other driver your intention to move and instruct them to follow you, so they don’t think that you are taking off!
  3. Plead the Fifth- DO NOT discuss any of the details of the accident with the other driver!  DO NOT admit fault or speculate loudly about what happened. What you say in these crucial can and will be used against you.
  4. Call the Cops– Let the dispatcher know exactly where you are and if there is anyone in need of immediate medical attention. The important thing here is to obtain a police report of the accident for insurnace purposes.
  5. Get What You Need– The only time you should communicate with the other party to is politely attain their information.  While waiting for the cops to arrive, get the following information from the other driver:
  • Their name, phone number, and address.
  • Insurance company name, phone number, and policy number.
  • Their vehicle year, make, model, and color, as well as their license plate number.

6.  Document it-Make sure to take photos of the damage to your vehicle or to any property. It is also helpful to document exactly where and how the accident occured, so if it is safe to do so, take photos of the position of the vehicles. Be sure to record streets and cross streets, the direction you and the other driver were traveling, and the time and the date of the accident. If there are any witnesses, take down their name and phone number.

7. Call Your Insurance Company– This cannot be stressed enough- contact your insurance companyas soon as possible. The number for the claims department is on the back of most insurnace cards. Make sure to include as many details of the accident as you can.

And there you have it. Just a few simple steps to follow should you find yourself in a fender bender. Remember these tips to make sure there’s little hassel to deal with after the crash. Stay safe on the road and remember, always buckle up!