If you've ever been in a rear-end collision - where someone runs into the back of your car - you know how frustrating it can be. It wasn't even your fault! However, you were in an accident nonetheless and have to deal with the consequences. Our Orlando Toyota body shop is here with tips on how to deal with the aftermath of a rear-end collision.
Five tips for this type of car accident
Tip #1: Pull over and park. First, you should check for injuries, of course. But you also want to get your car off the road and out of the way of traffic as quickly as you can to avoid being hit again. Find a flat, safe spot to park that's well-lit if it's dark out, and be sure to turn your hazard lights on so other drivers see your vehicle.
Tip #2: Call the police. Call the police as soon as you can after a rear-end collision, even if no one is hurt. You'll want a record of the accident and a police report for your insurance company, so you need them on the scene to document and give you the paperwork.
Tip #3: Don't admit fault. You should never admit fault after a rear-end collision - usually, it's the driver who ran into the back of the other car who is at fault, but not always. There are circumstances in which the person who was hit could be at fault. Don't admit to any blame and let the police sort it out based on what happened in the accident.
Tip #4: Take pictures and record damage to your car. When you're hit from behind, you should immediately document everything. Take photos of the visible damage, but remember that there could also be damage to parts of your Orlando Toyota that you can't see. Be sure to check for damage to the:
Trunk or rear cargo door
Exhaust pipe
Frame
Rear bumper (check underneath, too)
Alignment (if you notice your car pulling to one side after the accident)
Electrical systems (if you notice anything on the fritz)
Safety technology (this almost always needs to be checked after a car accident)
Tip #5: Notify your car insurance company as soon as you can. You'll want to get it on record that you were in an accident, and doing it within 24 hours of your accident is your best bet. If you're not at fault, you'll report the accident to the other driver's insurance company (but it's still a good idea to notify your insurance, too). Here are some tips for the call:
Don't say you're not hurt. You may not be, but it's important to remember that soft-tissue injuries (like to your neck and back) can take time to pop up.
Don't take the blame or admit fault - let the police report do its work.
If they ask to record the call, let them. Refusing to let yourself be recorded makes you sound like you're trying to hide someone.
And don't forget - if you did suffer any injury from the rear-end collision, be sure to get it treated by a doctor as soon as possible.
Schedule rear-end collision repairs at Toyota of Orlando
Need help, auto repairs, or a rental car after a rear-end collision? Toyota of Orlando is here! We're conveniently located just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall at 3575 Vineland Road, and we're open seven days a week at (407) 298-0001.
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