As a licensed driver, you’re statistically bound to get into an accident once every 18 years. While accidents range from hitting a pole at low speeds to colliding with another vehicle, even the most minor ones can cause injury and require collision repairs. Keep the following tips in mind to stay calm and properly handle the situation. 

Safely Handling a Collision

Avoid Tensing Up 

When you collide with another vehicle, it’s natural to tense your body and slam on the brake or turn the wheel. However, that can lead to greater injury and damage to your car. Instead, stay relaxed and navigate your car away from other objects to minimize the need for collision repair. 

Pull Over 

If it’s safe to do so, pull over off the road and out of the path of traffic. This will keep both you and passing traffic safe. If your vehicle is immobile, stay inside until it’s safe to emerge.

Don’t Exit Right Away  

Adrenaline will be coursing through your body, making you feel shaky and unfocused. Take deeps breaths to regain control and focus. Don’t leave your car until you feel level-headed. Avoid yelling at the other driver or making accusations, even if they’re at fault.

Check on Any Passengers 

Once you’ve inspected yourself for injury, check on any passengers in your car. They will be in shock, too, so encourage them to breathe deeply as well. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Otherwise, safely exit your vehicle to check on the other driver. At this time, you or any passengers can call a non-emergency police number. 

Exchange Information 

Take pictures of any injuries or damage to your car, as you’ll need documentation for insurance repairs. Next, exchange insurance information with the other driver. If your car can’t be driven, call a towing agency to bring it to a reliable collision repair shop. 

When accidents happen, trust Murray's Auto Body Shop in Goshen, NY for specialized collision repair. Since 1953, they’ve made the repair process as convenient as possible for drivers. Their experts are ready to tackle anything from wheel alignments to frame-straightening and custom body work. View a complete list of their services online, or call (845) 294-6139 to schedule auto repair.