Even a seemingly minor collision can often be a jarring and disorienting experience. Knowing how to react to a fender bender ensures that drivers and passengers can address any potential safety hazards that may be encountered at the scene of an accident. The following five safety tips can help ensure that prompt and effective action can be taken in the moments following a collision.
One: Avoid Moving Injured Parties
Attempting to move someone who has sustained an injury can often lead to further harm. Even drivers who have been injured during a collision may put themselves at greater risk by attempting to exit their vehicle. The best course of action is to wait for help to arrive if there is any doubt regarding the nature or severity of an injury.
Two: If the Scene of an Accident Remains Unsafe – Stay in the Vehicle
Fender benders can occur in many different situations. Assessing the potential risks posed by street traffic and other hazards should always be done prior to exiting a vehicle.Find a safe space to pull over before getting out of the car.
Three: Call for Help and Assistance Promptly
Contacting the police or calling for emergency medical services following an accident should always be done without delay. Prompt medical care is never an issue that should be overlooked and the police are often essential when it comes to assessing the scene of an accident or directing traffic.
Four: Ensure Vehicles Are Safe to Drive
Having a professional look over any vehicle that has been involved in a collision can be of paramount importance. Overlooking any damages or mechanical issues that may pose a potential safety hazard can be nothing short of a disaster later on.
Five: Seeking Legal Assistance
The services of a qualified injury attorney can be a valuable asset following a collision or other accident. You can talk about options for hit and run victims, to things like car repairs with an experienced attorney. From dealing with insurance claims to seeking financial compensation in order to cover the costs of an accident, access to an experienced lawyer can become a very important concern.
From exiting a vehicle too soon to overlooking the resources and opportunities needed to deal with the legal consequences of an accident, there are many mistakes and oversights that drivers commonly make after an accident. Staying calm, assessing the scene of an accident, and keeping an eye out for potential safety threats and hazards can all make quite a difference. Drivers who know how to react following an accident are far more likely to avoid any potential issues or concerns which may create further problems.