It’s essential to prepare for the unpredictable–though, by nature, we may be unsure what the “unpredictable” looks like. Drivers never expect to get in an accident while on the road, and the subject itself can be uncomfortable to think about. However, if you find yourself in an accident, you must know precisely what to do after the accident has happened.

1. If you’re in an accident, try to get help right away.

Accidents big and small may result in your vehicle becoming more damaged or being in the way of other drivers. You first need to remove the vehicle from traffic (if it’s a fender bender or a minor crash) and remove yourself from the vehicle. Put on the hazards if you can, though some vehicles will automatically display the hazards if you crash.

After removing yourself from the way of traffic, call 911. Under California law, you need to call the police to make a report on whether the accident is minor or major.

2. Document everything you need for your insurance.

Ever drive by accident to find someone on their phone taking pictures of it? It may seem like a silly thing to do after such a scary event, but it’s important to document things for your insurance. Take pictures with your phone of the collision and upload them to your insurance app. If your app doesn’t have an upload interface, you can just have them at the ready for when they ask. Do so only if you can: if it’s a major accident and you’re injured, just wait until the EMTs arrive!

3. Accident prevention is an important subject to go over with your young drivers.

Accident prevention is an important conversation to discuss with your young drivers or yourself if you need the reminder. Ensure that you’re always following safe-driving procedures (using blinkers, stopping at signs, looking both ways), have great driving habits (leaving a distance between yourself and other cars), and follow your car’s schedule for maintenance (oil changes, windshield wiper replacements, etc.).

Come see us at Yorba Linda Auto Service for your preventative maintenance and repairs.

Our experts at Yorba Linda Auto Service would be more than happy to assist in making you feel safer in your vehicle by doing inspections and preventive maintenance. For any repairs you need, come on in and see how we can help. Click here to schedule your appointment or visit us at 801 South Lakeview Ave STE G, Placentia, CA 92870!