Archive for May, 2018

If you read one thing today, make it this article! Here is your step-by-step guide to dealing with car accidents. From bumper bashings to 10 car pile-ups on the highway, car accidents are an everyday occurrence on South African roads. If the worst happened and you were involved in a car accident would you know what to do at the accident scene? Keep reading to learn what to do. Step 1: Stop and call for help Stop, switch on your hazards to warn other vehicles and climb out of your car if it is safe to do so. Call an ambulance and the police if passengers, drivers or pedestrians are injured. Note: You are required by law to stop your vehicle if you are involved in an accident and commuters and pedestrians are injured or killed or property is damaged. Failing to stop is considered a criminal offense. You can also be criminally charged for failing to help someone who has been hurt in an accident you are involved in, even if the accident was not your fault. Remember, however, that as much as you want to help injured people you should not administer first aid unless you are qualified to do so. Step 2: Clear the road  Move any cars that are obstructing the flow of traffic, but be sure to mark their position on the road first with chalk or spray paint if available, or to photograph the scene before the cars are moved. Note: If a person or animal has been injured in the accident do not interfere with the evidence or move any vehicles unless those vehicles are obstructing the traffic completely. Step 3: Assess the damage For insurance purposes take photos of the accident from as many different angles as possible. Take close-up photos of any damage to your car and any other cars involved. Step 4: Questions and answers Take down the following information from all other drivers involved in the accident as well as from people who witnessed the accident: Full names and surnames ID numbers Home, cell and business phone numbers Physical addresses E-mail addresses Vehicle registration Description of the vehicles (make, model and colour) Names and contact details of the police officials, paramedics, and tow truck drivers Your location: street name and suburb The time of the accident Road conditions and visibility Remember to also take note of what happened immediately…