Safety Tips Before and After Auto Accidents

Follow These Tips For Your Own Protection

Owning or riding in automobile will at some point in your life, will most likely cause you to be in an auto accident with another auto or various other objects. Even though you are careful, you cannot depend on what the other driver may do, or how they will react to a situation. Always be prepared to drive safely. These are tips that every driver needs to know.

1. Check all of your tires for the proper amount of air pressure. Don't forget the spare, or "donut tire". If you have a flat, and your spare is flat also, you could be stranded at some point in between your destination, with no help around for miles. In winter weather always be sure to carry traction devices when traveling over the mountains or long distances.

2. Check your brakes, brake fluid and oil, transmission and powersteering too, and every screw and bolt you can find to ensure that your car runs smoothly and safely.

3. Check all the lights to see if they are working properly. Include headlights, taillights, license plate light, and engine lights and gauges.

4. Make sure the radiator has the proper amount of water and coolant mixture in it.

5. Keep a camera, first aid kit, emergency lights and early warning devices in your vehicle. It is good to carry a tool box for repairs that may be needed. A roll of Duct tape can often be very useful as well, along with an extra engine belt.

6. Check your mirrors, and remember to BUCKLE UP! Seat Belts do save lives.

7. Be sure to carry photocopies of your insurance information, vehicle registration, and your driver license.

Even after taking all these precautions and you are still involved in an accident, don't be discouraged. Stay calm and don't panic.

After An Accident

1. Never leave the the accident scene no matter how minor it is. Leaving the scene implies guilt and you could be charged with "Hit & Run" which carries very dangerous penalties. Use your camera to photograph the position of your car in reference to what you collided with, especially if you are not at fault. The picture will prove your innocence. Record all the important aspects of the collision such as skid marks, position of the vehicles before and after the accident, and the distance if possible of the damaged vehicles.

2. If you have not been badly injured, try to help other injured parties. This is where you will need the first aid kit from your car if you can get to it. If you know nothing about first aid, call 911 or get someone to call it for you. When not knowing the right thing to do about certain injuries, the best thing to do is call for help.

3. Call the police. Law officers are better equipped to handle accidents. Your insurance company will also need an accident report that can only be supplied by police officers.

4. Know who you collided with, and get their driver license number, name, address, and insurance information. Give them your information so that claims for damages can be settled in the future. Protect yourself and don't give more information than is necessary. When colliding with an unattended vehicle, your are required to leave your name, address.

5. See a doctor to be checked for possible injuries.

6. Notify your insurance company and work with them during the investigation. This will hasten the investigation and ensure that you get paid for your claims.

7. Arrests are sometimes made at the accident scene, and are often indicators of the party with the most quilt. If arrested, know your rights and obtain legal counsel as soon as possible.

8. Know the amount of damages to which you are entitled to, should you lose your job because of injuries sustained, or suffer the loss of property. Your insurance company is obligated to pay you as well as the party's insurance with whom you had the accident.