how to react in a car accident

Car accidents are one of the scariest every day possibilities that can effect anyone’s life, any day, in a matter of seconds. Most people consider themselves to be well informed on what to do if they should ever find themselves in that type of situation. However many are misinformed. Car accidents can happen at any time of the day, anywhere. Put yourself in that situation, what would be the first thing you did after impact? If you say pick up the phone and call 911, you would be wrong. There are many crucial steps that need to happen before you alert anyone. Also you cannot react the same way in every car accident; it could mean the difference between life and death. Minor car accidents, like a “fender bender” still should be handled in the most serious fashion. In all car accidents the very first thing you should do is turn your hazard lights on. Depending on your surroundings, you ideally should not move your car. If for instance you are on a main road or somewhere with a heavy traffic pattern you should then pull over to the side of the road. After you have decided what that first move will be you then should turn your vehicle off. Your hazard lights will still operate when your car is off. Next before you even step out of your car you should call 911 to report the accident. Since the accident wasn’t life threating the other driver could be enraged and confront you as soon as you step out of your car, which can lead to further legal complications down the road. While on the phone with 911 they will ask you to explain the situation and surroundings. From there they will direct you on what to do next and will immediately dispatch and officer to you. Most likely by this point in time the other driver will have gotten out of his/her car and will try and approach you, the best option is to politely stay in your car but speak to them through a half rolled down window, and wait until the officer approaches to then get out and access the damage to your car. From