Car accidents: The six things you should do if you're in a crash

Having worked as a police detective, I found myself in a car accident this summer, providing me with a new perspective.

The collision involved an elderly woman who had a medical emergency while driving, causing her to swerve into my lane and collide with my car.

Following the impact, I was disoriented and unable to move, but fortunately, I only sustained minor cuts and bruises after being rescued by witnesses at the scene.

Realizing how fortunate I was, I reflected on some key takeaways from this harrowing experience.

It’s important to be cautious about what you say following an accident – avoid inadvertently admitting fault by apologizing.

Even if it feels instinctive to say sorry, it could be misconstrued as an acknowledgment of guilt.

Immediately post-accident, prioritize safety by stopping, checking for injuries, and alerting emergency services if necessary.

Ensure to exchange contact details with the other party involved and report the incident to your insurance provider promptly.

Gather as much information as possible, including contact details, witness statements, and relevant photographs.

Inform your insurer within 24 hours, providing them with comprehensive documentation of the accident.

Capturing photos of the accident scene, injuries sustained, and any relevant details can be crucial in resolving disputes and providing evidence for insurance claims.

Take detailed notes, record dashcam footage, and involve law enforcement where necessary to document the incident accurately.