The time to deal with an auto accident is before one ever happens. This might sound backwards but if you wait until you are involved in an auto accident, chances are, you will be too overwhelmed to properly deal with the situation. Preparing for a potential auto accident ahead of time can make the process easier.
Understand your insurance policy
Most drivers do not actually understand their insurance policy. They simply know that they are legally required to carry insurance and so, they purchase the cheapest policy. This is not always the best policy. If you are involved in an auto accident and you do not have sufficient insurance coverage, you could end up paying out of pocket. Your insurance provider could also end up denying your insurance claim and you could be left without a vehicle.
Before you choose an insurance provider, make sure you understand the specific details of the policy. If you do not understand something, make sure you ask for clarification. Ask your insurance provider what would happen if you were involved in an auto accident. Ask questions like how the claims process would go, are there any stipulations that would prevent me from being covered, and what is my deductible.
Properly store all of your vehicle documents
You will want easy access to your vehicle’s documents. Many people store these documents in the glovebox, but you can place them wherever is easiest for you to reach. The specific documents that you will need access to include your insurance card, vehicle registration, driver’s license, and any vehicle membership card. Storing these items in an easy to reach place will also make it easier to quickly hand them to the officer.
Choose a preferred auto accident lawyer
Of course, you could attempt to find accident claims lawyers after your auto accident or use your bankruptcy law firm, but you will find that you are too overwhelmed to truly consult and interview potential attorneys. You will also have a ton of other tasks to take care of. Additionally, you will find that the bankruptcy law firm that you worked with during your bankruptcy is not sufficient enough to handle your auto accident claim. Bankruptcy law firms are experienced in financial matters, but often not in auto accident claims. It is always a good idea to have a preferred auto accident lawyer available.
Store an emergency kit in your vehicle
Having access to an emergency kit in your trunk or back seat can also be useful immediately following an auto accident. The kit should include items like water, non perishable foods, a first aid kit, and additional mobile chargers. This is also a good place to store copies of important documents in case you misplace any of the others. Some drivers also choose to include vehicle lights to notify other drivers of their location.
Avoid auto accidents with safe driving
The only thing that is better than preparing for an auto accident, is preventing one. Although safe driving cannot completely eliminate the possibility of being in an auto accident, it can reduce the chances or severeness of one. Each day, people drive drunk almost 300,000 times, but fewer than 4,000 are arrested. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol significantly increases the chances of an accident.
Distracted driving is a newer problem that can have similar disastrous results as drinking and driving does. Five seconds it the average time your eyes are off the road while texting. When you are traveling at just 55 mph that is enough time to cover the length of a football field blindfolded. At any given moment across the country, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving. Reduce your chances of auto accident claims by practicing safe driving practices every time you are in the car.
Preparing for the possibility of an auto accident before being involved in one can reduce the stress of the situation. Instead of consulting with your bankruptcy law firm, you will already have an auto claims attorney available. You will also have the necessary equipment and documents to properly handle the accident.
