It does not matter if it’s a minor scratch or major crunch; having an accident can be stressful and overwhelming. The following steps may help guide you through important decisions you need to make whether you were at fault for the car accident or not.

STEP 1: Check Yourself for Injuries.

If you are injured from the collision, call 911 or ask someone else to do so. If you are seriously injured, try not to move and wait for emergency personnel.

STEP 2: Check on the Well-Being of Your Passengers.

If you are not hurt, check on the other passengers in your car. If anyone is injured, call 911 or ask a bystander to call for help.

STEP 3: Get to Safety.

If you can, move to the side of the road or a sidewalk. If your car is safe to drive and is causing a hazard where it is, pull it to the side of the road. Otherwise, leave it where it is and get yourself to safety.

Mark the scene of the accident with flares or retro-reflective triangles; if these are not available, make sure hazard lights are on all vehicles involved.

STEP 4: Call 911.

Whether an accident is considered a minor fender-bender or a major collision, calling the police is important. The responding officers will fill out an accident report and document the scene. When you file a claim with your insurer, they may ask for a copy of the police report to help with the claims process.

STEP 5: Exchange Information.

After making sure you and any passengers are uninjured, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Here is the most important information drivers should exchange after an accident:

  • Full name and contact information
  • Insurance company and policy number
  • Driver’s license and license plate number
  • Type, color, and model of vehicle
  • Location of the accident

DO NOT, however, discuss “fault� or make statements to anyone but the police officer.

STEP 6: Document the Accident.
  • Photograph your vehicle’s damage as well as the other involved vehicle. Taking photos from different angles, including the car’s license plate.
  • Get names of all the people who witnessed the accident, including those in the other vehicle.
  • Make a quick diagram of where the other vehicle occupants were seated and indicate both vehicles’ direction of travel and which lane they were in. Also, note date, time, and weather conditions.
STEP 7: Call Glaser’s Collision Centers.

Whether you need your car towed or need an estimate, Glaser’s will help you through the entire collision repair process. Glaser’s will help set up a rental car, if needed. Our Locations

STEP 8: Notify Your Insurer and Start the Claims Process.

They will tell you exactly what they will need to in order to process your claim and what to expect during the claims process.

An accident can leave even the most seasoned driver frazzled but following these steps may help protect you from unnecessary worries. Glaser’s Collision Centers will take the stress away and help get your vehicle repaired as smoothly and as quickly as possible.