BRITS POS – BRITS – Don’t ever think - “It’ll never happen to me.” While you may take every precaution you can to protect yourself, sometimes accidents still happen. That’s why it’s always best to be prepared with a list of Do’s and Don’ts after your car accident.
The Do’s
*Seek Medical Attention – If you – or anyone else – have been injured in the accident, seek immediate medical help.
*Contact the Police – Documenting the accident is a crucial step toward building your case. If you don›t contact the police, it becomes a matter of your word against that of the other driver.
*Exchange Information – Obtain addresses and phone numbers from all parties involved, including witnesses.
Also, make sure to record the following information:
*License Plate Numbers
*Car’s license
*The Car’s Make, Model, and Year
*Insurance Information
*Car Registration Number
*Driver’s License Number
*Take Photos – With your cellphone, take as many photos of your vehicle and that of the other party and the area surrounding the accident scene. Note road conditions and possible hazards that may have contributed to the accident.
*Gather Details – Note the date, time, and weather conditions, along with marking the location and any landmarks.
Draw a diagram of your accident too.
*Report it – Make sure to notify your insurance company as soon as possible and don’t say or sign anything until you speak to them.
The Don’ts
*Don’t Panic – Remain as calm as possible after your accident and call for help.
*Don’t Leave – Never leave the scene of the accident, unless you are seriously injured and need medical assistance. Only leave the scene once all the formalities have been concluded and you have exchanged information with the other drivers and witnesses.
*Don’t Discuss – File your report with the police and contact your insurance company before you speak to anyone else about the circumstances.
*Don’t Accept Blame – Don›t admit fault to an accident.
There may be many different circumstances of which you aren›t aware.
Also, don›t accuse the other driver – let the evidence speak for itself.
*Don’t Record a Statement – if the other party’s insurance company or the other driver contact you, don’t agree to being recorded.
It’s your right to say no. They will attempt to confuse your story and hold it against you at a later date.
*Don’t Sign – don’t sign any documentation, leave that to your insurance company to handle.
*Don’t Settle – Don›t accept any settlement until after you›ve consulted with your insurance company’s legal department.
