Life hands us a multitude of stressful situations and, if we are not prepared, the way we react (or don’t react) can have dire consequences. Being in an auto accident is one of the many situations where we can find ourselves extremely stressed out in an instant. Once in an accident it is very important to keep your wits about you while maintaining a calm and collected frame of mind.
The following are ways you can prepare yourself, so when the time comes you are capable of doing exactly what you need to do to ensure you can calmly handle the stressful moments after an auto accident.
Before You Set Foot in Your Car
One of the best ways to ensure you will stay calm in a stressful situation, such as an auto accident, is to be prepared for the situation. The following is a list of things you can keep with you in your car to make sure you are prepared for anything life throws at you:
- Always carry your cell phone
- Keep a disposable camera in your car
- Pen and notepad
- Medical Card – especially if you have any conditions medical personnel should be aware of
- Emergency contact info – names and phone numbers
- First aid kit
- Emergency flares
- Blankets
Be Aware of What Your Insurance Covers, and What Your Limits Are
Insurance coverage and limits can be difficult to understand, but it’s important that you do and have covered yourself, your passengers, other vehicles, and your own automobile. Sufficient coverage will help immensely if you are injured in an accident, or if there is only property damage due to an accident.
The following is a list of coverage available, and a description of what is covered:
- Liability Coverage – This type of policy is designed to cover the other driver/car involved in an accident that has been deemed your fault. This provides zero coverage for you, your car, or your passengers.
- Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) – Another policy that covers the other party in a collision deemed your fault. Coverage is purchased to cover each person injured as well as all persons injured as a whole.
- Property Damage Liability – Similar to BIL, this policy covers any damages, up to your coverage limits, to the other vehicle when you are at fault in an accident.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – Unlike the liability coverage types, this policy will cover medical expenses incurred by you or your passengers after an accident. The policy may also cover lost income if you have to miss work due to the injuries.
- Uninsured/Under-insured Motorist (UM/UIM) – If you are involved in an accident and you are not the at-fault party, and the at-fault party doesn’t carry insurance, a UM/UIM policy will help cover the costs of your property damage and injury.
- Collision – This coverage is designed to cover any repairs to your own car after an accident.
- Comprehensive – This type of policy will cover damage to your vehicle even if the damage is done outside of an accident. It may also cover a stolen vehicle. Remember to consult an automobile lawyer for legal advice and guidance regarding your insurance coverage and limits.
Click here for information on the MINIMUM requirements in Colorado
Remember, it’s Not the End of the World
Stressful situations, such as an auto accident, can feel like the end of the world. It is very important to remember that it is not. Let go of the fear that your minor accident will somehow change the course of your life, and remember that it will pass just like most other stressors.
Take Deep Breathes
In the moments after an accident your stress and anxiety may sky-rocket. Taking deep breathes is a sure fire way to get those feelings under control. Deep breathing helps to reduce your heart rate, blood pressure, and increase your nitric oxide levels. All of which will aid in reducing your stress.
After the Accident
Once you’ve dealt with the authorities you’ll need to deal with your, or the other driver’s insurance company. Working with an insurance company can be tiring and confusing. If you need help getting compensated for your injuries, or if the insurance company is acting in bad faith, please go on-line and research Personal Injury Attorneys. Once you’ve selected an attorney, they will be able to help navigate the insurance companies and get you’re the help you deserve. If you’re ready to talk with an attorney, give us a call at 1-800-716-9032, or fill out a contact for in the right sidebar.
