Although it rhymes, a fender bender is anything but rhythmic. There’s usually thuds and bumps involved followed by scratches and dents. While the damage isn’t severe, there are still important steps you should take after getting into a fender bender or minor collision.
Some of our claim team gave us their advice on what YOU should do if you are involved in a fender bender!
So, you were involved in a fender bender. Now what?
You should do several things after an accident, even if it’s just a fender bender.
1. Move to a safe location and check for injuries.
When you’re in a safe location, ensure no one involved in the accident is hurt. The physical damage to your car might be minimal, but it’s still a good idea to check for injuries. If you were driving alone, evaluate how you feel. If you had passengers, make sure they are aware of the possibility of minor injuries.
2. Exchange information with the other driver(s).
Be sure to exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved in the collision:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Name of their insurance company
- License plate number
It is also a good idea to take pictures of the accident to document the damage to the vehicles. Injuries may take some time to show up, and certain types of vehicle damage aren’t visible right away. There’s a chance the fender bender could actually be more severe than you thought. Having a record of the accident can help the insurance companies sort out the details and determine who is responsible for paying any claims that are filed.
3. Call the police and then call us at Benton White Insurance.
Call the police to report the accident so there’s an official record of the incident. If you need to file a claim, contact us to proceed! During that conversation, provide all information related to the accident such as the date, time, weather conditions, passengers in both vehicles, airbag deployment and points of impact of involved vehicles and any injuries
We get it. Accidents happen. It’s a risk everyone takes when driving.
That’s why it’s a good idea to be proactive before an accident occurs and review your policy. Here are some coverages to consider that could be helpful in the event of an accident, big or small.
- Comprehensive coverage
- Collision coverage
- Rental coverage
- Diminished Value coverage
Another proactive measure you can take before an accident occurs is reviewing and practicing safe driving habits. Here are some tips to keep in mind when you’re behind the wheel:
- Keep your distance
- Always ensure there is enough space between your car and the car in front of you so you can stop safely. Increase the distance when weather conditions are bad.
- Drive strategically
- Avoid situations that could force you to suddenly use your brakes.
- Communicate
- Clearly communicate with other drivers by utilizing turn signals and yield the right of way when needed.
- Don’t drive too fast
- Speeding is dangerous, even if there is no one else around you.
- Wear your seatbelt
- It’s always a good idea to wear your seatbelt. Just because you are practicing safe driving, doesn’t guarantee everyone around you is also. Properly wearing your seatbelt is a great habit to form.
Although they usually involve minimal damage, it can still be confusing to navigate the steps to take after a fender bender occurs. Just because it has a light-hearted name, doesn’t make it any more pleasant to handle, but with the help of our claims team you are now in the know of what to do in case you find yourself in a fender bender or minor collision.
We are HERE TO HELP! TEXT or CALL US at 615.377.1212 or visit our website if you have any insurance needs we can assist you with. We have said for over 46 years, “if it can be insured, we can insure it and we service it too!” We’re ready to earn your business!
Be careful as these holidays slip up on us!
Disclaimer: This article is not expert advice. The analysis of coverage is in general terms and is superseded in all respects by the Insuring Agreements, Endorsements, Exclusions, Terms and Conditions of the Policy. Some of the coverage mentioned in this material may not be applicable in all states or may have to be modified to conform to applicable state law. Some coverages may have been eliminated or modified since the publishing of this material. Discounts may not be available in all states. Limitations and conditions may apply. Premiums will be based on benefits chosen. Please check with your local Independent Insurance Agent for details.
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