What to do after a minor car accident

The first thing to do after a minor traffic accident is to remain calm and check for injuries. You are expected to offer all possible assistance if someone is injured. Even if there are no injuries, it is a good idea to call 911. Reporting an incident can prevent the other party from denying or shifting blame. Don't apologize or explain your actions. This is called an "anti-interest confession" and it can be misinterpreted or used against you later.

Make a report

If the police are too busy to respond, be sure to report the incident to the police station the next day. In any case, get the name of the officer and the service report number. If the accident occurred on corporate property, such as a mall parking lot, ask security personnel to record the incident and give you a registration number. The company may refuse to disclose the contents of the report, but you can take this information to court if it is really important to your case.

Exchange of insurance

You should definitely exchange insurance information. Write down the name and address of the other driver. You may ask to see his or her license to confirm the accuracy of the information. If another driver asks to see your license, show it to him or her, but don't refuse it. People have been known to steal the license and try to use it as leverage. Write down the model and color of the car and, of course, its registration number.

Take some photos

Now that almost everyone has a camera on their phone, take pictures of the accident and any damage. If you see any strange evidence, such as bottles or cans or drug implements, try to take pictures of them too. Also bring this to the attention of the police, security personnel or witnesses.

Get a witness

If any of the witnesses mention anything that suggests the other party was wrong, ask them if you can get their names and contact information for your insurance company. You can record their brief statement in writing or on your phone. All this helps.

Tell your insurer

Notify your insurance company and the other party's insurance company, especially if you are sure the other party is at fault. You can file a claim with both companies and be sure to get a claim number from both.