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   Portland, OR | (503) 244-9394

OUR BLOG

08/05/2024
Have you got tangled in a minor car accident? This guide from Weaver Synthetics in Portland will help you get back on track. Stay prepared and informed for any unexpected twists on the road ahead.

Portland's known for its chill vibes, but even the calmest driver can get stressed after a fender bender. No worries, though; this guide is here to help! We'll walk you through the essential steps to handle a minor car accident so you can get back to enjoying the city as quickly as possible. Let's turn a bump in the road into a minor detour, not a major headache.

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Step 1: Secure the Scene and Check for Injuries

The most important thing after any accident is to check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. Once everyone's safe, turn on your hazard lights and move your car out of traffic if possible. This prevents further accidents and keeps everyone safe. Next, secure the area by setting up warning triangles or flares at least 100 feet away toward oncoming traffic. This will alert fellow drivers to the accident and help avoid additional collisions.

Step 2: Document the Accident

Now, let's gather some evidence! Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, including close-ups and shots of the surrounding area. If possible, note down the date, time, and weather conditions. This documentation will be crucial for insurance purposes and for establishing the facts of the accident.

Step 3: Contact the Authorities and Report the Accident

In most cases, reporting the accident to the police is a legal requirement. For accidents with injuries, property damage, or hit-and-run scenarios, contact the Portland Police Bureau. For minor accidents with minimal damage, you can call the non-emergency line. When reporting the accident, be prepared to provide details like the location, descriptions of the vehicles involved (make, model, license plate), and a brief description of what happened.

Step 4: Swap Information

Now, it's time to exchange information with everyone involved. Obtain the names and contact details of all drivers, passengers (including their insurance companies), and witnesses who may have seen the accident. Remember, this is not the time to discuss fault. Stick to the facts, avoid admitting blame or apologizing, and let the authorities determine who's responsible.

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Step 5: Seek Medical Attention

Adrenaline can be a tricky thing – it can mask injuries you might not feel right away. Even if you feel okay at the scene, it's crucial to get checked out by a medical professional. This ensures any potential injuries are identified and treated promptly. Keep detailed records of all medical bills and treatments related to the accident. This will be helpful when dealing with insurance claims later.

Step 6: Take a Good Look at Your Car

Next up, assess the damage to your car. Look for any leaks, dents, or malfunctioning lights. If your car seems safe to drive, proceed cautiously to a safe location like your home or a mechanic's shop. However, if the car is undrivable, call a tow truck to transport it safely.

Step 7: Contact Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company and report the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details you've gathered (photos, police report) so they can guide you through the next steps based on your coverage.

Step 8: Get Your Vehicle Back in Shape

Finding a reputable repair shop is key! Get recommendations from friends, family, or online reviews. Look for shops certified by the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) program, which signifies their commitment to quality repairs. Don't hesitate to get quotes from multiple shops before making a decision.

Conclusion: Breathe Easy, You Got This!

Being in a car accident, no matter how minor, can be stressful. But by following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath smoothly. Remember to stay calm, document everything, report the accident, and prioritize your health and safety.

Shaken up by a minor car accident? Now's the perfect time to prioritize your car's health! Weaver Synthetics in Portland has a fantastic selection of AMSOIL products. Call them at (503) 244-9394 to place your order anytime. Prefer online shopping? Visit AMSOIL's e-store from the comfort of your own home.