You drive the speed limit, you use your blinkers and you follow the three-second rule. You’re a safe and cautious driver, but unfortunately collisions do happen. Though being in a crash is never an enjoyable experience, there are ways to make sure the process goes as smoothly as possible. Below are three steps to help guide you through.

Step One: Be Prepared -There are several items you should keep in your car at all times in case you are involved in a collision:

• A Camera - Whether disposable, digital or on your cell phone, it is important to have a camera in your vehicle. Be sure to take pictures of the damage to your car, your license plate, the damage to the other vehicle and the license plate of the other car. Having these photos will help with any dispute that may arise later.
• Pen & Notebook - You will need to write down and exchange personal information with the other driver, such as driver license information, insurance information, as well as crash details.
• Flashlight - In the event the crash takes place at night, it is important to keep a flashlight in your car both as a safety precaution and to use while observing any damages.
• Blanket - There may be harsh weather conditions at the time of your crash. If you are unable to remain in the car or the heater has been compromised, a blanket will be vital for staying warm and avoiding any further harm to your body, while you wait for law enforcement and/or medical personnel to arrive.

Step Two: At the Crash Site - If the event is serious, the first thing to do is to call 911. Below are actions to take if it is a non-injury collision:

• If the crash occurs on the freeway and your car is still in operating condition, move your vehicle to the right side shoulder as far out of the traffic lane as possible and turn on your emergency hazard lights. If the collision occurs on city streets, try to pull over into a shopping center, a gas station or somewhere else that is safe and out of traffic’s way.
• Exchange the following information with the other driver:
  • Name
  • Insurance Provider & Policy Number
  • Current Address
  • Driver License Number
  • Vehicle Make, Model, Year and License Plate Number
  • Any additional details of the accident that you might later forget
• If any witnesses come forward, take down their contact information and a statement. Sometimes the other driver involved will alter their story after the fact, so it can be crucial to have a third party witness.

Step Three: The Aftermath - After the crash occurs, there are still a few items to take care of:

• Contact your insurance agent - You must contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Most companies offer a 24-hour collision claim service. Your agent will then get in contact with the other driver’s agent and will submit any necessary reports to the DMV and the CHP.
• If you feel any unusual neck or body pain, visit your doctor or ER immediately. Sometimes the adrenaline rush of a crash will mask any injuries you may have sustained and the pain will surface soon after.

By following these steps and being prepared when a collision takes place, you can avoid the extra headache that comes with not having essential items handy or not obtaining the proper information. For more information on avoiding collisions, reporting a crash, or overall driver safety, visit www.dmv.ca.gov. Save time. Go online!