Imagine this: You’re sitting at a red light, maybe thinking about what to make for dinner or planning your weekend, when suddenly—BAM!—the car behind you slams into your vehicle. The shock, confusion, and frustration hit all at once. Unfortunately, rear-end collisions are one of the most common types of accidents on the road, and they can happen when you least expect them. While no one wants to think about being involved in a crash, it’s crucial to know what steps to take if you’re rear-ended and how to protect yourself moving forward.

Here are three key things to keep in mind if you’re ever in this situation:

1. Assess the Situation: Ensure Safety First

Immediately after a rear-end collision, your first priority is safety. Start by checking yourself and your passengers for any injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to be cautious—sometimes injuries like whiplash don’t show symptoms right away.

Once you’ve confirmed everyone’s safety, move your vehicle out of traffic, if possible. Staying in the middle of the road could put you and others at risk of further accidents. For example, let’s say you’ve been rear-ended on a busy freeway. Safely pulling over to the shoulder or an emergency lane can prevent additional collisions. It also and make the scene easier for police and emergency services to manage.

Pro Tip: Always keep an emergency kit in your car that includes items like reflective triangles, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. This can be a lifesaver in the moments following an accident.

2. Document the Incident: Your Paper Trail Matters

After ensuring everyone is safe, you’ll need to collect and document information about the accident. This step is crucial for protecting yourself legally and financially down the road. Start by calling the police, even if the damage seems minor. A police report provides an official account of the incident, which can be invaluable when dealing with insurance claims.

While you wait for authorities to arrive, gather as much information as you can. Take photos of both vehicles, the license plates, the surrounding scene, and any visible damages. Get the contact details of the other driver, including their insurance information. Don’t forget to note the time, date, location, and any relevant weather conditions.

Let’s say you’re rear-ended in a parking lot, and the other driver suggests handling the situation without involving insurance. In this case, it’s still smart to document everything and contact your insurance provider to make sure you’re covered. Failing to report the accident could leave you liable for hidden damages or medical bills later on.

3. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Protect Your Interests

Once you’ve documented everything, it’s time to reach out to your insurance provider. If you’re a Hertvik Insurance Group client, this step couldn’t be easier. By notifying your agent as soon as possible, you can start the claims process and get the support you need.

Protect Yourself from the Unexpected

No one can predict when or where an accident might happen, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. From securing your safety to collecting the right documentation and contacting your insurance agent, taking the right steps after being rear-ended can protect you from unnecessary stress and financial loss.

If you’ve recently been involved in an accident or want to make sure you’re fully prepared for the unexpected, now is the time to reach out to Hertvik Insurance Group. Our experienced agents are ready to help you review your auto insurance policy. We are here to answer any questions, and ensure you have the best coverage in place to protect you and your vehicle.

Contact Hertvik Insurance Group today to schedule a complimentary policy review and stay one step ahead of the unexpected. Don’t wait until after an accident to find out if you’re covered—get peace of mind today!