Luckily being involved in an accident is a rare occurrence but as it’s not something people are used to it is unfortunately easy to end up out of pocket and unhappy with the outcome.
Here are our tips on what to do if you are involved in a crash:
1) Remain Calm.
It is easy to get angry and upset after an accident but it is an important time to take information. The Police will attend if there are injuries or the vehicles are obstructing the traffic. If a driver leaves the scene of an accident without giving details it is a criminal offence and you should call the Police. If the only issue is the damage to the vehicle the Police do not need to be involved.
2) Think Safety!
Turn off the ignition. Do not attempt to restart the vehicle until you have checked it for damage. If possible turn on your hazard warning lights. Remember to apply the handbrake. Take a moment to assess the situation before attempting to get out of the car. Check yourself and those in your car for injuries. Be careful of traffic moving around you when getting out of your vehicle. Once out of your car look for fluids leaking from the car that may be hazardous to yourself or other road users.
3) Take photos.
With the popularity of camera phones it is much easier now to produce proof of fault after an accident. Take photos of both vehicles, ideally at the point of collision. Also take photos of the road as from the direction each driver would have seen it. These photos will show driving conditions and visibility of road signs and markings.
4) Take notes.
Names of drivers and passengers, contact numbers, registration numbers, vehicle make, model and colour of all vehicles involved along with the date and time of the incident. If there are any witnesses it is also wise to collect their contact information if possible. Whilst the information is fresh in your mind it is a good idea to write a report of what happened.
5) Call us on 01522 568247.
We can advise you on what to do next and guide you through the process of dealing with insurance companies. Our expert team can take care of the whole process; recovering your vehicle, providing a courtesy car, handling the insurance claim, repairing your vehicle & legal representation. We will be fighting your corner and getting you back on the road as soon as possible.
If you have questions about accident damage repair or car insurance please e-mail us info@paintperfectlincoln.co.uk or visit our office on Clayton Road, Newark Road Industrial Estate, Lincoln. LN5 8RE.