According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Dallas and Tarrant County combine to be the Texas metropolitan area with the most reported traffic accidents. It could be the construction in Grapevine on Hwy 114 or the expansion of Hwy 183 in Hurst Euless and Bedford that distracts some drivers. Whether we want to admit it or not, just by living in Arlington or any part of D/FW, most of us will be involved in an automobile accident at some point in our lives. Even if you are not injured, there are certain things that you should and should not do.
Stay At the Scene
If you are in an accident and someone is hurt or there is damage to property remember to stay at the accident scene until the police say you can leave; if you leave the accident you could be ticketed. If possible, move your vehicle to the shoulder or out of traffic. If you can’t, at least turn on your hazards to warn approaching traffic.
Do not Admit Fault
Even if you think you are at fault, do not admit fault. Unless you are an Arlington car insurance adjuster there may be factors that played a role in the accident which could determine the other driver was more at fault than you. Avoid focusing who is at fault in the accident; rather make sure everyone is physically alright.
Obtain Relevant Information
In any accident, you should obtain the following information:
- The other driver: Name, address, driver’s license number, insurance information and license plate number.
- Witnesses: Names, addresses, and telephone numbers.
- Police officers: Ask the police officer(s) who investigate the traffic scene to provide you with a business card and an “incident number”.
- The location: You may wish to take notes about (and/or pictures) where the accident happened; the road conditions, speed limits, traffic control devices, the weather, and the lighting.
- The accident: If possible take notes about how the accident occurred, such as the direction of travel of the vehicles involved and what the cars were doing at the time of the collision.
- Take a picture: Most cell phones today have a decent camera that can be used to give a good visual description of the damage and road conditions.
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If You Are Injured, Accept On-Scene Medical Treatment or See a Doctor As Quickly As Possible
If there is a chance you may have been injured seek medical treatment. It is better to be safe than sorry.
If you are ever unsure about what to do remember to give your agent at Low Rate Insurance a call at 817-635-0375 or visit our website. Remember at Low Rate Insurance Agency we are always here to help.