What to do in the Event of an Auto Collision

COLMA — A car accident can be a jolting experience, even if it’s just a minor collision, which is why drivers sometimes forget what to do next. Besides confirming the safety of all passengers involved, there are a couple crucial steps to take following an accident.

After making sure all passengers are safe, the first thing you should do is obtain the other driver’s information. While writing down contact and insurance information is standard protocol, the prevalence of smartphones often makes it more efficient to simply take a picture of the other driver’s insurance card and license. Also, be sure to take a few photos of the damage sustained by each vehicle—these pictures can serve as documented evidence for any legal issues that come up in the future.

While photos can protect you legally, you also want to protect yourself physically. After taking photos and swapping information with the other driver, you need to determine if your own car is in operable condition before driving it. While a flat tire is an obvious indication that you need a tow truck, it’s also important to look underneath your vehicle to see if any liquid is leaking from the engine. If you see any leaking fluids, your car needs to be towed, not driven, to a repair shop.