Accidents happen. Especially on the road. As much as driving carefully plays a huge role in accident prevention, there are still many factors that can lead to mishaps and crashes. That being said, being prepared for such events can help prevent the situation from getting worse or even adding more salt to an already painful wound. It is no secret that accidents on the road have been known to leave even the most experienced drivers overwhelmed.
Check out our Carhoot pointers below:
1. Do Not Leave The Scene Of The Accident:
In case of any type of road mishap or accident, it is very important to never flee the scene unless your life is in danger! This applies even to the smallest of incidents. Not only is it highly irresponsible, but fleeing the scene of an accident is a punishable offense under the Road Traffic Act. Take a few moments to switch off your engine, and turn on your hazard lights. This will alert other drivers to your position as well as indicate that you may be in distress. Observe your surroundings and ensure that all the passengers if any are okay. In case of serious injuries, use your first aid kit to administer first aid as you wait for medical assistance. It is really important to always have a properly stocked first aid kit in your car and at least two contacts for different ambulance services on your phone at any given time. Also, if there has been a death, the first step is to immediately contact the police.
An Example of Special Circumstances
In many cases, other road users and pedestrians often are a big help and act as Good Samaritans. Even in the case of small accidents, a witness can make a huge difference in how your post-accident journey goes. In case you have been in a road accident and experience direct external threats to your personal safety from other parties, the best course of action is to if possible, drive to the nearest police station and make a report. More often than not, Kenyan car owners have found themselves in conflict with boda boda riders over accidents. Many times drivers can find themselves being intimidated, threatened, and even attacked before they can take proper actions.
PRO TIP: As a Carhoot Member, you can take advantage of our Road and Assist services to make the process easier. We offer 24-hour Emergency Rescue and Medical Assistance Covers that will ensure you and your passengers get emergency transportation to the nearest appropriate hospital in case of any injuries. We partner with the best ambulance and evac services to ensure our members get the priority they need.
2. Call The Police:
The second major step is to reach out to the Traffic Police from the nearest police station and report what has happened. Even if there are no serious injuries, it is a legal requirement to inform the police. Also if there has been any form of damage, personal injury to you or other people at the scene of the accident, or worse still death, the police will be essential to ensuring you get the required assistance.
PRO TIP: Make sure you note down the badge numbers and names of the officers who arrive at the scene. Any police officer who responds to an accident is required to fill out an accident report and document the scene. This report will then be used by you to file a claim with your insurance company. Police reports carry significant weight with insurers in determining how they resolve claims.
3. Remember To Capture Details Of All Parties Involved
In case there are other people involved at the scene, ensure you capture all their contact information and any other detail you may think is important. Things like name, mobile numbers, driver’s license numbers, residential address, license plate, car make, and model will help make the process easier once you get time to follow up. In as much as the officers who report at the scene will be tasked to collect this data, it is better to be safe than sorry. If there are any witnesses, you can also take the initiative of taking their mobile numbers in case you need them to record a statement.
4. Make Notes Of What Happened
If you are not injured and no one at the scene is harmed. Take a few moments to note down everything that happened as accurately as possible. If you are not sure then it is better not to make assumptions but only capture what you know is true If there are police officers already at the scene, make sure you ask them to share a copy of their accident report with you. Also, remember to include notes of the condition of your car and indicate any damage specifically. Taking clear pictures of your car from different angles and any other property damage or physical injuries to any person at the scene will also be helpful.
PRO TIP: If you need your car transported or towed or help in fixing any damage to your car after an accident, easily use the Carhoot App or reach out to our team through contact number and we will guide you through the process.
5. Reach Out To Your Insurance Provider
As soon as you are able to, contact your insurers and let them know what has happened. Explain everything as best as you can, and share the notes you captured and the reports from the police. If you or any person suffered any injuries as a result of the accident, make sure they are properly informed about the extent of the injuries suffered. If you are in a position to reach out to a Carhoot Customer Suppor or your insurance agent while still at the scene, let them guide you on anything you may need to process any claims you may have.
PRO TIP: Our Carhoot Technical Assist teams are only a call away to advise any of our members on road traffic laws, insurance policies, and accident damage recovery claims. We offer legal support and police assistance on motor-related matters.
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