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14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident - Travel - Nairaland

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14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:27am On Jul 31, 2017
Hello Amiable readers.I came across this car talk on the internet titled `14 Things To Do After A Car Accident'.I believe that if it is not useful for you today, then it might be useful for you tomorrow.
It goes thus,

It’s been a week since I ate my car’s airbag. Feasting on a deployed automobile safety feature is not something you want to do any day of the week. But if you happen to one day get into a car accident, there are things you can do to prevent further injury for yourself and those around you, ways to decrease your expenses, tips to better your chances for health and car insurance claims, and ways to keep yourself sane.
Taking simple steps like keeping an emergency preparedness kit can help you survive the aftermath of a fender bender or even something worse. A car crash sure isn’t my idea of fun, but through my own car accident ordeal I've found these14 things to do before and after a car accident can help you get your motor running again – even if your car is a totalwrite-off.Hugs.
1. Stay in Your Car and Stay Calm
Right after impact my “better half” swung open the door to “see” what was going on.I grabbed his leg and told him to sit still inside the car. I think I made the right decision. The number of cars rubber-necking at our accident or driving past at highway speeds was dangerous, and could have hit us if we walked about in a confused state. Sitting still and waiting for the airbag gas to clear (those things make a mess) gave us some time to collect our thoughts, thank a higher power for our teeth and toes, and discuss what to do next.
In our situation our wrecked car was on the side of the road after the engine cut out, so we weren’t in danger of being hit on the highway by oncoming traffic. If your vehicle is still operable and you don't have any serious injuries after the car accident, it’s a good idea to drive your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid another crash. If your car cannot be moved, I think it’s safer to just remain in your car with seat belts fastened and hazard lights turned on until help arrives.
At this point you may be in shock and unaware of any injuries, so sitting still could prevent further health issues. If your car is on fire, it’s probably safest to vacate that vehicle if you can.

2. Report the Car Accident
As soon as the airbag gas clears and you’ve located your cell phone, call the police and 911 – or your emergency assistance equivalent. After our accident I didn’t dial these essential digits since the fellow in the other vehicle was first to his cell phone – I was still choking on airbag gas. After the essential emergency digits have been dialed, do stay at the scene of the accident until the police have questioned and reviewed the incident getting your description of what happened. Be prepared to wait a bit for the emergency authorities to arrive, the real world isn’t as quick to respond as those on television dramas. Soon after the accident be very cautious about your health as not all injuries can be seen. If you or your passengers are not feeling right then call for an ambulance right away.

3. Emergency Preparedness
kit planning for a car accident is not a lot of fun, but it could keep you safe.Before stepping into your vehicle today consider if you travel with the essential emergency tools that could keep yourself well in case of a car crash. Here’s a basic emergency car kit list:
Basic Emergency Preparedness Kit*.
cell phone*.
disposable camera*.
pen and paper*.
medical information card – detailing insurance numbers, allergies and conditions that may require special attention if you are not conscious.*.
contact names and numbers: emergency numbers and relatives contacts*.
first aid kit*.small road cones, emergency flares*.
Mylar blankets
After a flying truck wheel hit our car, I quickly discovered I was not fully prepared for a car crash. I didn’t have my cell phone, we would have loved some small road cones to set around our car to alert passing drivers of the accident, and a Mylar “space” blanket would have kept me warm. After the accident my body temperature dropped drastically and I got very cold waiting for the police to arrive. There are many companies who put together “Road Assistance Kits” boasting several pieces and gadgets. Many of these kits are pricey and contain cheaply constructed tools so beware if you’re looking for an all-in-one safety solution. A better approach may be to purchase only the items you need (like booster cables, LED flashlights, and bandages) and spend a bit more for quality tools. The last thing you want is an essential tool to break when you need it.

4. Exchange Car Insurance and Driver Details
After an accident, always exchange driver details and take some accident notes. Be sure to use your pen and paper (from your emergency kit) to gather the following:*.name*.address*.phone numbers*.driver license*.license plate number*.insurance company and policy number
In our situation the driver’s name was different than the name of the insured on the accident vehicle – so we had to take down the details for each of the driver and the car owner. My “better half” also wrote down a description of the truck, including: make, model, and color.

5. Locate Any Witnesses
Did someone see the accident happen? Get their name and number just in case you need a witness for the accident. It’s good to know someone can speak up for you in case of a dispute.

6. Don’t Admit fault
When you come face-to-face with the driver of the other vehicle try not to assign blame or admit fault or liability, even if you think you made the mistake. Let the police and insurance companies do their jobs and use their tools to come to a conclusion. You don’t want to admit to something in a state of shock or sadness.

7. Don’t Share Injury Concerns
If someone asks, “How are you doing?” keep a low profile by saying, “I’m shaken up”. The truth of the matter is you don’t know what is or isn’t wrong with you at this early stage. Besides, you don’t want to make statements while in shock and later have to refute them after seeking the advice of a medical professional.

8. Know What Your Car Insurance and Health Insurance Covers
Knowing your car and health insurance details could save you a lot of grief when dealing with a car accident scenario. It’s always better to know BEFORE an accident that you’re fully covered for ambulance trips, tow trucks, or rental cars. Check your policies for specifics and get extra coverage today for those essentials you’ll need covered if you’re injured or your car cannot make the drive home.

9. Photograph and Document the Accident
Be sure to carry a disposable camera in your emergency kit to photograph the damage to all vehicles. If your cell phone has a built-in camera – then you’re good to go. Take photographs of the damage toyour car, the other driver’s car, and the entire accident scene to give perspective of the event. Take wide shots of tire skid markings to show vehicle travel paths. Photographs showing the entire accident can help you make your case to claims adjusters if there is a dispute.

10. Seek Medical Attention
Luckily my “better half” and I didn’t require an ambulance after our accident. But after our car was towed away we did seek medical attention to check over our necks, backs, shoulders, and general health. As small as an injury might seem at the time, get all health concerns documented sooner rather than later. Many injuries will start off as minor pains (like whiplash) which if not taken care of properly could get worse over a few short days. Besides, getting a doctor to document EVERYTHING sooner can only help any insurance claims you need to make later.

2 Likes 3 Shares

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by whitebeard(m): 10:30am On Jul 31, 2017
don't forget to take a selfie.

3 Likes 2 Shares

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Conner44: 10:31am On Jul 31, 2017
Really?

So there are things one can do "BEFORE" a car accident

Op you failed to mention these things oh

3 Likes

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:33am On Jul 31, 2017
11. Report Accident To Your Insurance Company
As soon as your stomach has settled and you’ve gone to the doctor to get checked over, call your insurance company to report the accident – even if the damage seems minor or the other driver wants to settle without making an insurance claim. Seemingly small fender-bender car accidents can reveal major damage later on – like a bent car frame – so get your insurance company in the know sooner or you might be without coverage when you really need it.


12. Call Your lawyer
I squawk you not. While our car was sitting on the side of the road leaking some funky engine liquid stuff, my “better half” called his lawyer and asked specifically what else he should do before the car was towed. Many of the tips in this article are from that call. Getting your legal beagle in the know sooner may help you get the most from an insurance claim and help you see more clearly when everything seems a mess.


13. Remove Belongings from car if you’re well-enough to walk away from the wreck and it’s safe to do so, then don't forget to remove your valuables from your vehicle before it’s towed.

Rescue any driving gadgets, insurance papers, repair reports, receipts, purse, wallet, or music before leaving your keyswith the tow operator.14. Be ThankfulAfter our accident I was very thankful to still be alive with my “better half” in onepiece. Sure, our car is a complete “write-off” but vehicles are just stuff.People are priceless.Try the best you can to be thankful for what you have today, not for what you lost.

Got anything else to add to this list? Your wise words may help thousands.

Excerpts
http://www.squawkfox.com/14-things-to-do-before-and-after-a-car-accident/

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Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:37am On Jul 31, 2017
cc: Mynd44
Marpol.

1 Like

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:41am On Jul 31, 2017
Conner44:
Really?

So there are things one can do "BEFORE" a car accident

Op you failed to mention these things oh

3
8
and add yours
..Get a lawyer

1 Like

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:44am On Jul 31, 2017
I was thinking that I will be the first to comment on the thread I created
..I wonder which network these guys are using...

1 Like 1 Share

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by dakeskese(m): 7:48am On Aug 01, 2017
...
hmmmm...

Three things to do to reduce chances of accident:

-Pray to God always against Village Poople Network.
-Make sure the car is in good shape.
-Avoid over speeding and overtaking unnecessarily.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by oshe11: 7:50am On Aug 01, 2017
u dn mean it....



Take selfie after the accident.....

Hide ur fone mk pipo pretending to help no tiff am grin
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by edeXede: 7:51am On Aug 01, 2017
embarassed

[s]1. Stay in Your Car and Stay Calm
Right after impact my “better half” swung open the door to “see” what was going on.I grabbed his leg and told him to sit still inside the car. I think I made the right decision. The number of cars rubber-necking at our accident or driving past at highway speeds was dangerous, and could have hit us if we walked about in a confused state. Sitting still and waiting for the airbag gas to clear (those things make a mess) gave us some time to collect our thoughts, thank a higher power for our teeth and toes, and discuss what to do next.[/s]


Nonsense. That barrister lady tried staying and she was burnt to death.

[s] 2. Report the Car Accident
As soon as the airbag gas clears and you’ve located your cell phone, call the police and 911 – or your emergency assistance equivalent.[/s]


[s] 11. Report Accident To Your Insurance Company
As soon as your stomach has settled and you’ve gone to the doctor to get checked over, call your insurance company to report the accident – even if the damage seems minor or the other driver wants to settle without making an insurance claim.[/s]

[s] 12. Call Your lawyer
I squawk you not. While our car was sitting on the side of the road leaking some funky engine liquid stuff, my “better half” called his lawyer and asked specifically what else he should do before the car was towed. [/s]

[s] 13. Remove Belongings from car if you’re well-enough to walk away from the wreck and it’s safe to do so, then don't forget to remove your valuables from your vehicle before it’s towed.[/s]

Nonsense again. You don't forget say na who motor no hit dey get time pick plate number.

I am coming back to cancel the remaining points, let me prepare for work

3 Likes

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Tapout(m): 7:52am On Aug 01, 2017
that number one tho, so if the car should burst into flames, I should still Sit tight with my fastened seat belt and turn on my harzard indicator undecided then one blogger would come and start taking pictures for his blog and then title it " weird driver sits calmly in his car after accident while it burns"

IMO, these 14 things wil only help in countries with stable and standard emergency services, not nigeria

13 Likes

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by kingreign(m): 7:53am On Aug 01, 2017
Jackossky:
.
1. Stay in Your Car and Stay Calm
Right after impact my “better half” swung open the door to “see” what was going on.I grabbed his leg and told him to sit still inside the car. I think I made the right decision. The number of cars rubber-necking at our accident or driving past at highway speeds was dangerous, and could have hit us if we walked about in a confused state. Sitting still and waiting for the airbag gas to clear (those things make a mess) gave us some time to collect our thoughts, thank a higher power for our teeth and toes, and discuss what to do next.
In our situation our wrecked car was on the side of the road after the engine cut out, so we weren’t in danger of being hit on the highway by oncoming traffic. If your vehicle is still operable and you don't have any serious injuries after the car accident, it’s a good idea to drive your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid another crash. If your car cannot be moved, I think it’s safer to just remain in your car with seat belts fastened and hazard lights turned on until help arrives.
At this point you may be in shock and unaware of any injuries, so sitting still could prevent further health issues. If your car is on fire, it’s probably safest to vacate that vehicle if you can.


DO NOT TAKE HEED TO THIS ADVICE.
Many people are alergic to smoke, dust or powder and other particles especially those who are asthmatic. Staying in such confined spaces could lead to complex emergencies. It's best to walk few yards away from the car while observing the car to prevent looters. Reason is, to get some fresh air, to study your surroundings, to quickly get assistance especially in remote areas, and also to easily come out of the shock of the crash.

The only time I'd not advice quick evacuation is when there's a spinal cord or vertebra injury or when the car is in the centre of a high-speed express way and cars are on high speed.

1 Like

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Nobody: 7:54am On Aug 01, 2017
Before Accident ke.....Na wa o
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by fait10(m): 8:02am On Aug 01, 2017
Many of us here never buy car now

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by supereagle(m): 8:04am On Aug 01, 2017
The right things to do in a civilized climes, but not relevant to Nigeria.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by benjamin007: 8:17am On Aug 01, 2017
None of these apply to us Nigerians, Mumu op copy and pasted,
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by obaogo: 8:17am On Aug 01, 2017
This post is not applicable in Nigeria.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by teelaw4life(m): 8:25am On Aug 01, 2017
These tips are not applicable to this region na. Especially that number 1, stay in the vehicle and run the risk of being turned into burnt human crisp.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by ipobarecriminals: 8:35am On Aug 01, 2017
sad sad and take pinsure with ur Tecno/itel phone
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Nobody: 8:54am On Aug 01, 2017
I stopped reading when i saw dial 911,mteeeew

2 Likes

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by NevetsIbot(m): 8:55am On Aug 01, 2017
if you ever have a crash.... get away from the car!!! if any other vehicle rams into you from behind.. that might be the end.... crazy drivers are all over naija.


sit tight kor.... when the car might just suddenly explode without any warning. tufia

1 Like

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by xtivin(m): 8:57am On Aug 01, 2017
Oga O.P, In Nigeria only Number 6 is valid
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by olowobaba10: 9:28am On Aug 01, 2017
SO THERE ARE THINGS YOU WILL DO BEFORE AN ACCIDENT, AS IF TO SAY YOU KNOW YOU'RE GOING TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT AND WHAT ARE THOSED THINGS? STUPID POST

Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Tobium1(m): 9:36am On Aug 01, 2017
Not everything is applicable in Nigeria, all you copy and paste fellows
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:47am On Aug 02, 2017
Tapout:
that number one tho, so if the car should burst into flames, I should still Sit tight with my fastened seat belt and turn on my harzard indicator undecided then one blogger would come and start taking pictures for his blog and then title it " weird driver sits calmly in his car after accident while it burns"

IMO, these 14 things wil only help in countries with stable and standard emergency services, not nigeria


When the vehicle start emitting smoke,you aew advice to vacate the vehicle as fast as possible.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 10:49am On Aug 02, 2017
Tobium1:
Not everything is applicable in Nigeria, all you copy and paste fellows

start reading from the top again...

or is it your comprehensive skills?
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 11:06am On Aug 02, 2017
teelaw4life:
These tips are not applicable to this region na. Especially that number 1, stay in the vehicle and run the risk of being turned into burnt human crisp.

After a crash, a person may feel a wide range of emotions — shock, guilt, fear, nervousness, or anger — all of which are normal. But take a few deep breaths or count to 10 to calm down. The calmer you are, the better prepared you will be to handle the situation. This is the time to take stock of the accident and try to make a judgment about whether it was a serious one.
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Jackossky(m): 11:12am On Aug 02, 2017
olowobaba10:
SO THERE ARE THINGS YOU WILL DO BEFORE AN ACCIDENT, AS IF TO SAY YOU KNOW YOU'RE GOING TO HAVE AN ACCIDENT AND WHAT ARE THOSED THINGS? STUPID POST


he he he.. funny guy..

so you don't know that you have to take some precaution against having an accident and take some kit with you if you eventually do.

Anyway...None will have an auto crash IJN
Re: 14 Things To Do Before And After A Car Accident by Xenisha: 9:35am On Feb 15, 2023
Personally, it became suitable for me to choose a company that provides insurance services for auto repair, it has 3 levels, that is, if you choose the very first level, you will receive insurance for the repair of only basic parts, but I, in turn, chose the last one, you can see it here check out this one , tell me your feedback, because when I made this application, I was introduced to the list of services and I was satisfied.

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