What To Do Soon After A Car Accident?
This article will guide you through the basic protocol that you can follow right after an accident.
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Car accidents are common incidents on Indian roads. Minor to major accidents take place on a daily basis every few minutes. Accidents can be devastating to the individual and the family and are highly unpredictable events. In such circumstances, it is crucial to understand what to do right after a car accident to keep yourself safe from any life-threatening damages.
Things You Must Do After A Car Accident
Being involved in a car accident can be traumatizing to both the individual and the family. These are highly unpredictable events that can’t be fathomed even by the most seasoned drivers. It is always advised to adhere to certain basic guidelines to keep yourself safe from being liable to major damage. The following is a simple protocol that you can follow right after an accident-
Stop Your Vehicle Immediately
According to the law, anyone who has been involved in a car accident must stop their vehicle immediately irrespective of the consequence of the accident. Leaving the accident scene will be heavily penalized with a hit-and-run case. So, ensure that you stay at the accident spot and check for injuries and damages to the car.
Avoid Getting Angry And File An FIR
It is common to feel extremely frustrated with having your prized car damaged in an accident. But, it is important to control your temper and handle the matter with patience. Make sure you file an FIR at the nearest police station right after the accident and get medical assistance if there have been any injuries. Refrain from entering into settlement negotiations without the help of a lawyer in case of any major accidents as such negotiations may involve complex legal clauses that can be used against you.
Take A Note Of The Details Of The Accident
After the accident, make sure you take note of the details of the incident and list the damages on your car and the third-party’s vehicle. Taking pictures of the scene and collecting details of the third party involved in the accident along with witnesses. Note down the license plate number and time and date of the accident. Taking these details will help you in case the third party approaches the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal for a legal settlement.
Inform Your Insurance Provider/ Company
Having a car insurance will help you to handle your financial liabilities especially when it involves such costing situations. It is wise to inform your insurance provider about the accident as soon as possible. In case of any major damages to your car or the third-party’s vehicle, narrate the incident to the insurance company as it is and claim your car insurance. Make sure you produce all necessary documents at the time of surveying and be honest about the details of the incident.
Follow-Up With Your Insurance Provider
Never neglect following up with your insurance company. Attend their calls and make sure to cooperate with the survey team in order to claim your car insurance. If the accident is major, you may have to deal with legal proceedings which are time-consuming but necessary. You can take the assistance of an experienced lawyer if needed to deal with the aftermath of the situation. They will ensure that you get legal help while speaking to the insurance provider of the third party so as to avoid jeopardizing your claim.
Take Away
Car accidents can be traumatizing and involve expensive aftermath. Make sure you have appropriate car insurance to cover you and your prized possession and follow the protocol properly in order to stay safe from exploitation. Drive safe!
Also Read
How to Claim Car Insurance After Meeting an Accident in India?
Top Car Insurance Companies Providing Personal Accident Cover
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
