A car collision is nothing to wish for but something you must be prepared for. Here are the five steps you need to follow if you happen to be at the scene of an accident in Baltimore, MD, including what you need to do for the collision repair process.
Check Yourself and Others for Injuries
The very first thing you have to do is check yourself for injuries. Make sure you’re okay and able to help others. Then, check on your passengers. Hopefully, nobody will be seriously injured. If you suffered severe trauma or any other injury, stay still and call the emergency services immediately. If anyone else is seriously injured, don’t move them unless it’s indispensable. Moving an injured person can do more harm than good!
Get to a Safe Spot
If it’s not too dangerous to move, walk to the sidewalk or side of the road. Moving your vehicle too (if possible) is a good idea – otherwise, it could pose a safety risk. Nevertheless, your safety and the safety of your passengers come first. Moving your vehicle is a distant second: make sure you’re away from harm before figuring out what to do with your car.
Call 911 (Legal Requirement in Baltimore, MD)
Maryland state law requires you to call 911 if an accident results in property damage, injury, or death. More likely than not, the collision you just went through resulted in any of these things (hopefully, nothing too serious). Move to a safe spot and call 911 to report the accident. After that, wait until the authorities arrive. If you feel your life is in danger, be explicit about it when you call.
Document Everything for the Collision Repair Process
Although an accident is far from a pleasant experience, you must keep calm and document everything. That includes writing the names of the responding officers, taking pictures of the accident, talking to witnesses, and exchanging information with other parties involved (including full name, insurance information, and car description). Before doing that, try to move your car somewhere safe and turn the hazard lights on.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notifying your insurance broker while at the scene of the accident is a good idea. That way, they will tell you what they need to file your claim correctly and help you through the entire process. Your insurance company can help you deal with towing too. Nevertheless, if you suffered a severe injury, it’s better to leave this part for later.
We hope this blog from DARCARS Toyota of Baltimore comes in good use anytime you might need it. Lastly, in the case of an accident, you can rely on our local collision repair center in Baltimore, MD, to repair your car back to good condition.
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