Car accidents can be very traumatic. We never expect to be in one, but may find ourselves in one before we know it. Although you should always drive carefully and when sober to minimise the risk of accidents, there is no way you can completely eliminate the risk. The most important thing to do if you find yourself in such a situation is to stay calm and focused. Ensure that you are alright, and turn the hazard lights on. If the accident was major and you have sustained serious injuries, immediately call an ambulance. Even if the accident was minor, it is still a good idea to take a trip to your physician. You should also inform the police. You may also want to contact a relative to come to the scene if you feel you cannot handle the situation yourself in the best way. Also, contact your insurance company as soon as possible.

Keeping your nerves in check is very important just after an accident. Do not start blaming everything on yourself or the other driver; just give a collected account to the police when they ask for it. Picking a fight with the other people involved in the accident will only aggravate things and might actually turn the tables on you -and you might be considered responsible.

Being ready for an accident at all times may also pay off. Organise and keep an accident kit in your car trunk at all times. This may include first aid materials and substances, and a camera if possible. If you have a pen and paper handy, note down all the details of the accident. This may come in handy if you have to testify in court later or make a claim for personal injury. Also, note down contact numbers of any eye witnesses. Take pictures to help.

It is a good idea to read up on your insurance policy and find out how to get the maximum amount from it. Find out if your policy will supply an alternative vehicle, or the equivalent of its value in cash. Also, if the accident was entirely another person’s fault, you should file for Personal Injury Compensation. You will probably have a good chance of winning your claim if you were not at fault, for example not wearing your seat belt or driving on the wrong side of the road.

If you have insurance and do not want to get caught up in lengthy court proceedings, it is a good idea to meet up with the other party involved and settle with them out of court. Sometimes, people are just looking for an apology. Offer one if it is due. Car repair charges or hospital bills can be borne by the responsible individual(s) to compensate for their fault. However, if they do not comply and your insurance does not pay you (or if your vehicle is not insured), then it is time to seek legal advice.