You were just in an accident. Now what?
You were in an accident. Your head is reeling, heart pumping, and you’re racing to make sense of what just happened. In this moment, the last thing you want to worry about is remembering what to do next. Read these steps and be prepared when you get into an accident.
1. Get to a safe area
If you can, move to a safe area away from the wreckage, road, or other hazard area. Move your vehicle off the road. If that’s not possible, turn on your hazards to alert other drivers. Make sure it’s in park and turn it off.
If you have passengers, help guide them off the roadway and to a safer area such as a sidewalk, storefront, or grassy curb away from the road. Check on others involved and call 911 immediately if anyone needs medical attention.
2. Call the police
For insurance and other reasons, you should get a police report for the accident. Having that official report will be invaluable later for issues with insurance claims and other drivers involved. However, do not admit fault after the accident. Cooperate and be respectful with the police and others involved.
3. Get information
Get information from the other party and those involved in the accident such as names of the drivers and passengers, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Write down the makes and models of all vehicles involved, contact information of eyewitnesses, location of the accident and the name and badge number of responding police officers.
Take pictures of the scene, location, vehicles, and any other details that are related to the accident. They can be useful during the claims process.
4. Start your insurance claim
Call your insurance and get the process started. If you have roadside assistance, you can request they tow your car to your local Fender Mender shop. Your insurance adjustor can inspect your car at the shop and you can get into a rental car from Enterprise. Each of our locations have an Enterprise store nearby, making it easy for you to get back on the road after an accident. From there, we can handle your insurance claim.
5. Leave the rest to Fender Mender
From the repair to your claim, we will handle all of the details after your accident. With frequent updates, we’ll keep you updated on progress of your repair. Plan your return to the shop and leave your rental car for an Enterprise agent to pick up. Drive away knowing the work on your car is backed by a lifetime guarantee.
We hope you never experience an automotive accident. If you drive, however, the risk is there. Be prepared in case it happens and have the necessary information on hand. Find your local Fender Mender shop and save the number and address in your phone! When you are ready, you have that piece of mind knowing you’re taken care of. With Fender Mender, you can experience the same feeling of trust and security knowing we are your established auto repair shop!