Accidents happen. In the case of fender benders, it is important to understand what you should do immediately following a minor accident to reduce damage and expenses. Leesburg Ford offers the following tips to deal with a fender bender.
Access damage- Assuming the accident was indeed minor and no persons were injured, the first step is accessing damage to both vehicles or any property. In most states including Maryland, it is recommended that vehicles involved in an accident not be moved until the proper authorities are notified and present to document the incident. In some cases, cars involved in a fender bender can be moved to the roadside to avoid additional damage from moving traffic. In either event, accessing the damage and contacting the proper authorities should be your first step.
Take notes- In many cases drivers involved in a fender bender opt to pay for any damage themselves instead of reporting the incident to their insurance companies. Whether you decide to notify your insurance company or choose to pay for the damage yourself, it is important that you exchange pertinent information with the other driver as well as noting your recollection of the accident. This information may be needed in the future.
Take your car to a professional- Your local Leesburg Ford dealership can help determine if there is any damage to your vehicle beyond what is visible to the untrained eye. In some instances the damage is structural and while not visible to the naked eye yet easily spotted by a trained professional.
Despite being considered minor accidents, fender benders are responsible for much of the business at car body shops in Leesburg, therefore knowing what to do immediately afterward can help you save both time and money in the long run.