Even if an accident is limited to a simple collision, it can give serious headaches to the drivers concerned. A collision necessarily involves having to negotiate with the parties involved, contacting your insurance company, and in the worst case, treating injuries. Even for the innocent driver, the steps to follow are not easy. Here are 10 steps to make it a little more bearable.1- Make sure that everyone involved is safe and sound : even if you instinctively think of the damage to your vehicle, take a few seconds to make sure that no passenger or driver is injured. Otherwise, call the emergency services.
2- Avoid stretching the excuses : yes, politeness is in order, but avoid long concerts of excuses. A simple “I’m sorry, I was distracted” is enough in this kind of situation.
3- Look for witnesses : other motorists or passers-by saw the vehicles collide? Ask for the coordinates of these witnesses so that they can possibly plead in favor of your innocence.
4- Watch out for leakers: if you have one of those camera phones, take pictures of the license plate of the vehicle you collided with. If the motorist flees but you manage to identify him, it will be much easier for you to receive compensation from your insurer, even if you only have insurance for the damage you cause (“the insurance on one side”). In the event of a hit and run, you will have to turn to the SAAQ.
5- Take pictures : no! the photos are not used to immortalize your accident. The photos of the damage suffered on your car will facilitate the procedures with your insurance company.
6- Fill out an amicable report: write down as many details as possible in your declaration. If you managed to take pictures of the accident, they will be able to support the diagrams that you must draw in the report. If you disagree with the comments reported, do not sign the document. It will be difficult for you to go back on your version of the facts if you have affixed your signature to it.
7- Contact your insurance company : do not delay in reporting the accident to your insurance company, even if you are not the faulty person. A claims adjuster will then assess the amount of compensation that will be paid to you. For repair work, your insurance company may also suggest a workshop . But the final decision rests with you as to the choice of the mechanic.
8- Consult a doctor: if you have physical injuries, consult a doctor. He will complete a report which he will then send to the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec. You can then be reimbursed for the costs related to your rehabilitation or receive an income replacement indemnity. The SAAQ also provides compensation for home help, if your state of health requires it.
9- Contact the right people: if the opposing party’s insurance company contacts you, the best answer you can give them is to contact your insurer. Don’t start discussions that could backfire.
10- Stay vigilant: an accident is never a pleasant event. But whether you are at fault or not, experience will teach you to be extra vigilant on the roads… because in a car, you need to have eyes all the way around your head.