The Journey & The Grind

If you’re unfortunate enough to be in an accident, take these steps. They will help keep your sanity in-check while managing this frustrating experience.

Even if you haven’t been in an accident, this information will be helpful for your knowledge. It can also be useful to share with someone else.

No matter how safe of a driver we are, misfortune happens. For those who drive recklessly, your chances are higher. Follow the rules of the road at all times.

Picture This

The evening sky casts a dim light as you drive home, the day’s exhaustion creeping in. The road is slick from earlier rain. As you approach an intersection, a sudden motion grabs your attention. A pedestrian bolts across the street. Before you can fully react, you notice a speeding pickup truck swerving to avoid the pedestrian. Its tires screech on the wet pavement. Time seems to slow as the truck loses control, skidding directly into your path. The impact is jarring, the sound of metal crushing metal deafening. In the aftermath, silence takes over, broken only by the sound of your breath as you process what just happened.

Step 1: Safety Check:

Immediately after a collision, check yourself for any physical injuries. If marked safe, check your passengers then check with the other vehicle.

If someone is hurt – call an ambulance / EMT for assistance. In cases where there are no physical injuries, you may still need to monitor for internal trauma.

Step 2: Law Involvement:

Call the police to commence the investigation. Do not engage with the other driver about who is at fault. Avoid physical and verbal confrontation. In most cases no one accepts their fault. Even when it’s as clear as day.

Step 3: Vehicle Inspection:

Visually examine the damages to your vehicle as you wait for the police. Avoid estimating repair costs without guidance from an expert mechanic or auto body man. Without a proper inspection you run the risk of overlooking underlying mechanical issues or hidden damages. Contact your preferred mechanic for advice.

If the damages are minimal, one party might choose to settle by offering to take care of the repair expenses. Be cautious. In many cases, individuals promise to fix things verbally. Later, they stop answering calls or vanish like a magician’s act.

In some cases, the police encourage both parties to settle with no further legal involvement. If you’re in the wrong and would like to settle you should act with integrity. Honoring the commitments you make. You’ll be told to formalize the agreement in the presence of a Justice of Peace or Commissioner of Oaths.

If you’re in the right, I strongly advise to avoid solidifying settlements until after police reports and charges. By making a private agreement or settlement, the law enforcers will be reluctant to get involved in cases of a breach. Leaving the matter to be resolved privately in court.

Insurance companies recommend avoiding private commitments. This is especially important if you decide to have them, the insurance company, compensate for your damages.

Step 4: Police Reports:

Give statements to the police accurately detailing the events as they unfolded. From this, the police will decide the charges to be laid out and the next steps. If one party was driving dangerously or without a license, they may be detained. Any other breach of the traffic laws may also require them to pay a fine.

Step 5: Insurance:

Report the incident to your insurance company and the other party’s insurer. The company will reach out to the police for their report.

If you’re not at fault, you can choose which insurance to claim from – yours or the other person’s. The other party’s insurance may provide you with a limited compensation. This is where you evaluate which is best for you.

It’s always advisable to make certain you have comprehensive insurance coverage for your vehicle. It is a big financial investment. Not being fully insured can cost you significantly when you least expect.

You will then need you to provide a quotation for your damages to the insurance company. They will also involve their own inspectors to verify damages and pricing.

The repair process can take you days, weeks or even months. It’s your duty to be proactive in each step of the way to accelerate the process. Constant follow ups and check in’s are necessary.

Further Action

Make sure to follow up with any further police action if required – court dates, further statements, etc.

In conclusion, accidents are unfortunate and often unexpected. However, being informed and prepared can help you handle the situation with clarity. You can also manage the situation with composure. Following these steps ensures not only your safety but also protects your financial interests and legal standing. Always prioritize health and safety first, involve the authorities, and make decisions with integrity and caution. With the right approach, you can navigate even the most frustrating experiences and emerge with a resolution that minimizes further stress. Stay safe, and always drive responsibly.