If you are involved in a car accident, there are several key steps you must follow.
This is according to WesBank, which provided an overview of what motorists must do in such an incident.
“Whether it’s a minor bumper bash or something more serious that could involve injuries, being involved in a vehicle accident is both a stressful and traumatic experience,” said WesBank.
WesBank provided the following advice to motorists on what to do when in a vehicle accident.
Safety first
Once you have stopped your car, and you are not injured, turn on your hazard lights and place a safety triangle behind your vehicle when safe to do so.
“If you are not injured, check on the other drivers and passengers. If someone is seriously injured, call an ambulance. Remember that you can call 112 from any cellphone network in South Africa in an emergency.”
WesBank said that if any passengers or pedestrians have been injured in the accident, or if there is damage to any property, the law requires all parties to remain at the scene until the SAPS arrives.
Record the damage
The next step is to record the details of the incident using what you have on you – such as a smartphone.
WesBank said you must record all the events of the accident “as accurately and precisely as possible at the time of the incident”.
“This will assist with the ensuing insurance claim and reporting the accident at the nearest police station.”
This includes taking down notes, a voice recording of your assessment of the incident, and photos of the scene.
“Once that is done, and you can do so, move the cars to the side of the road if they are obstructing the traffic flow – but only if it is safe to do so.”
Next, get the details of the other drivers involved – including their names, contact details, vehicle details, and insurance information.
“It is also useful to note the personal details of the passengers involved in the incident and any bystanders or eyewitnesses who observed the incident.”
Towing
If your vehicle is damaged in the accident and cannot be driven, WesBank advises that you use a towing service authorised by your insurance provider.
“If you don’t have tow cover with your insurance company, request a quote from the tow truck driver before your vehicle is towed.”
Take down the contact details and vehicle registration of the tow truck driver, too, along with the address of where your vehicle will be towed to.
Reporting the accident
The accident must then be reported to the police within 24 hours, said WesBank.
“Ensure you receive an accident report number if you are lodging an insurance or third-party claim.”
You must also provide your insurance company with an accurate explanation of what took place during the accident, being “as honest as possible”.
“When filling in the car insurance claim form, you will need to recall all the details of the accident – including the location, the weather, the road condition, potholes, or a faulty traffic light, for example,” said WesBank.
Repairs
Depending on whose fault the accident was will determine who is liable for the costs of repairs to vehicles, said WesBank.
If the accident was caused by another driver, their car insurance company is liable to cover the cost of repairs to your damaged vehicle, once their claim has been received and approved.
“If the other driver is not insured, you or your vehicle insurance provider will have to cover the costs of the repairs to your car.”
It said this also applies if the accident was your fault, and will require you or your insurance provider to cover the costs of damages to the other party’s vehicle or property.
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