Navigating a fender bender can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can be very useful. Keep reading this guide by AMSOIL: Huff Oil Group in Fayetteville, NC, for all the information you need in case you’re ever in one. 

What is a Fender Bender?

When a car accident happens at low speeds and causes minor damages, they’re called fender benders. These types of accidents are among the most common types of car accidents, with 1.7 million reported each year. Usually, these accidents are caused by drivers that get distracted when on the road. Backing up from parking spaces or stopping suddenly are other common reasons for fender benders.

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Stop the Car and Assess the Damage

After being in a fender bender, the first step is making sure everyone is ok. Stop the car somewhere safe and if there are other people in your vehicle, make a quick assessment of everyone’s condition. If it’s safe to do so, step out of your car and assess the damage. If you’re on a road with a lot of traffic, wait for the police to arrive at the scene before exiting your vehicle. Remember that it’s essential to keep yourself safe at all times. Once you’re able to leave your car, assess the damage and the other car’s damage and say as little as possible to the other driver.

Call Emergency Services

Your next step is to call emergency services by dialing 911. Even if no one is hurt, you need to report the crash as it can be in your best interest to have a neutral third party at your side, as emotions can run high during a collision. A neutral third party can help you collect statements and evidence if it’s not clear who was at fault. Once the police officer arrives, ask them for their contact information and badge number so you can follow up with the report. ; When talking to the police, it’s essential to state the facts of the crash as their job is to get a clear account of the accident to include in their report. Once they’re done, ask them for the report number so you can follow up with the report in a couple of days at the police station. Your insurance company will require this report to file a claim for the fender bender.

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Document the Scene

While you’re waiting for emergency services to get to the scene, and only if it’s safe to leave your car, document the scene. Take video and pictures of your vehicle and the other car’s damage. Also, take notes about the scene, what you remember happened, photos of the surrounding area, as well as the road and weather conditions at the time of the crash. This evidence can make it easier when filing your claim with your insurance company. Once the scene has been documented, you can move the cars out of the way to let traffic flow freely.

Exchange Driver Information

It’s also crucial to exchange information with the other driver. This information should include their name, address, phone number, license number, license expiration date, and date of birth. Also, ask for their insurance company, and license plate number, and take note of the description of their vehicle. If there are any witnesses around, get their information, too, as it could be helpful when filing your insurance claim.

Call Your Insurance Company

Lastly, it’s essential you contact your insurance company as soon as possible whether the crash was your fault or not. The insurance company will ask you for general information about the accident, the evidence collected at the scene, and the police report. On this call, they’ll also let you know what the policy covers and if you need to pay any deductibles to fix your car.

For a car to be in top shape, it’s essential to use the best products for its maintenance. Call Huff Oil Group at (910) 988-9328 for advice on the best products for your engine, or visit their online shop 24/7 to place an order.