A fender bender is a minor car accident. Yet, it can still leave the people involved feeling rattled and unsure of what to do next.
Whether it’s a bump in a parking lot or a low-speed collision at a traffic light, knowing what steps to take immediately after a fender bender can make a big difference in how smoothly the aftermath is handled.
While it may seem minor, there are several crucial actions to protect yourself legally and financially. Here’s what you should do after a fender bender.
Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
The first step after any accident, no matter how small, is to stay calm and assess the situation. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Even in a low-speed accident, soft tissue injuries like whiplash can occur and might not show symptoms until hours later. If anyone is injured, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately.
In cases of severe injuries, call emergency services right away. If no one is hurt and the vehicles are still drivable, you can safely proceed to the next steps without involving emergency services, but don’t skip this essential check.
Source: freepikMove to a Safe Location
After determining whether there are any injuries, you should move your car to a safe area on the side of the road. Busy places are often the scene of minor collisions, and parking in the center of the road puts you in danger of getting into another one.
Most experts agree that moving vehicles out of traffic is crucial unless the vehicles are severely damaged and cannot be moved. However, if the fender bender occurs in a high-traffic zone or it feels unsafe to exit your vehicle, it’s best to stay inside with your seatbelt and wait for authorities to arrive.
Exchange Information
One of the most important steps after a fender bender is to exchange information with the other driver. You should gather the following details:
- Full names and contact information of both drivers
- Insurance company details
- Driver’s license numbers
- License plate numbers
- Make, model, and year of the vehicles involved
- Location of the accident
You will need this information to file an insurance claim. It is also a smart idea to take photos of the surrounding area, the license plates, and the damage to both vehicles. These photos can provide key evidence should there be any dispute about the accident’s cause or severity.
Document the Scene
In addition to taking photos, it’s helpful to write down or record a few notes about the accident as soon as possible. Record the time of the accident, weather conditions, and any other notable details that might be relevant later. Witnesses can also be an asset.
Whether any onlookers witnessed the collision, get their details and find out whether they would be ready to state if needed.
Documenting the scene thoroughly helps ensure that all important details are recorded while your memory is fresh, which can prevent disputes from arising later.
Final Thoughts
While a fender bender might not seem like a big deal, it’s essential to take certain steps immediately after the accident. Staying calm and checking for injuries, moving to a safe location, exchanging information with the other driver, and documenting the scene can help protect you legally and financially. It’s also crucial to follow up with your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident.
Remember that even minor accidents can cause hidden damage or injuries. So it’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention if needed. By following these steps, you can handle a fender bender efficiently and minimize any potential complications. Drive safe!
