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05/06/2022
Knowing how to handle a fender bender can make the experience less stressful; thus, this post by Schell Distributing Inc. in AMSOIL: Schell Distributing Inc: Sherree will walk you through the steps to take in a minor car crash.

What Does a Fender Bender Mean?

Do you know what a fender bender is? As its name implies, this type of driving accident refers to a low-speed impact that bends car fenders. Most of the time, fender benders occur due to distracted or drowsy driving. Although they usually do not result in severe or fatal injuries, fender benders can generate significant property damage bills for car owners. Now, it goes without saying that being involved in a fender bender can be a daunting experience; therefore, it's helpful to know what steps to take in the event of getting into a minor car accident; thus, this post by Schell Distributing Inc. has put together some essential tips on how to deal with a fender bender effectively. If you're interested in this topic, read on.

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What to Do After Having a Fender Bender

Stay Calm

Despite occurring at low speeds, fender benders can be surprising and unpleasant; therefore, they are expected to produce shock and discomfort. To understand this point better, imagine a distracted driver accidentally hitting your car from behind; in such a situation, you would inevitably feel an adrenaline rush and an accelerated heart rate. Now, it goes without saying that dealing with a crash in a state of shock can be tricky; therefore, it is best to regain calm. Considering the above, take a deep breath and verify that you and all the passengers in your car are safe; doing so will be helpful to make wiser decisions and resolve the accident in the least stressful way possible.

If Possible, Pull Your Vehicle Out of Traffic

After a fender bender, it is recommended that you move your vehicle to the shoulder or emergency lane of the road to avoid obstructing traffic or causing secondary crashes.

Report the Crash

Many people believe it is unnecessary to call the police to report a fender bender; however, it is advisable to do so in order to obtain a police report compiling all the details about the accident, including injuries observed on the drivers involved, property damage noted on the vehicles, witness information, among other details. Obtaining this report can be significantly helpful for insurance companies to settle the payment of repairs.

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Document the Crash Scene

Taking photos, videos, and even audio will serve as evidence for your insurance company; therefore, be sure to photograph and record your vehicle from all possible angles. Likewise, take photos of the other car's license plate and the documentation of the other driver involved in the crash. If there are witnesses, ask them for permission to record audio describing what they saw. In general, be sure to collect as much evidence as you can.

Exchange Insurance Information

Another essential step is to talk with the other driver involved in the crash; to that end, make sure they are okay first, and then proceed to exchange the following information with them:
  • Names
  • Addresses
  • Phone numbers
  • Insurance companies' names
  • Insurance policy IDs
  • License plates
If the other driver refuses to give you any of their information, there is nothing to worry about as long as you have a photo of their license plate; still, it's convenient to get all their info to facilitate the insurance claim process.

Lastly, Call Your Insurance Company

The last step you should take at the crash scene is to call your insurance company to report the crash; after doing that, you can expect your insurance agent to contact you and let you know which next steps to take. They'll also ask you for all the evidence you gathered in the crash scene to investigate the accident further and resolve any possible claims (either yours or the other driver's) in the best way possible.

Aside from learning how to manage a fender bender situation, reach out to the oil pros at Schell Distributing Inc. to become familiar with the benefits of using the most effective synthetic oil in AMSOIL: Schell Distributing Inc: Sherree for your engine's maintenance. Call them at (208) 524-0322 or browse AMSOIL's online store to place an order on top-shelf products for your vehicle.