Collision 101: What Every Driver Should Know Before Hitting the Road

Whether you’re new to driving or have years of experience, knowing how to stay prepared for collisions can make a big difference. Accidents happen unexpectedly, even to careful drivers, so being informed can help you handle the situation smoothly and safely. At OHS Body Shop, we’re here to walk you through collision preparedness and give you some key pointers to keep in mind before hitting the road.

In this guide, we’ll cover essential steps for collision preparedness, what to do if an accident happens, and how to protect yourself and your vehicle.

The Basics of Collision Preparedness

First, let’s start with the essentials. Collision preparedness is all about having a plan in case you’re ever in an accident, whether it’s minor or serious. This means ensuring your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies, knowing the necessary steps to take after an accident, and keeping your insurance information accessible.

Key Items to Keep in Your Car

Keeping your car stocked with certain items can help you manage a collision more effectively. Here are some basics:

1. First Aid Kit – Essential for minor injuries.
2. Emergency Contact List – Include contacts for family, a towing company, and your insurance provider.
3. Warning Triangle or Road Flares – These can increase visibility if you’re stopped on the side of the road, especially at night.
4. Flashlight and Batteries – A must for nighttime incidents.
5. Notepad and Pen – For taking notes on the accident, exchanging information, and writing down details.
6. Disposable Camera or Smartphone – Photos of the scene and any damages are essential for insurance.

What to Do Immediately After a Collision

If you find yourself in an accident, it’s essential to stay calm and follow a few key steps.

Step 1: Ensure Safety

Your first priority is safety – both yours and any passengers. If possible, move to a safe location, away from oncoming traffic. If the car can be driven safely, pull over to the side of the road or into a nearby parking area. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Step 2: Call for Help

Dial 911 if anyone is injured, or if the accident is blocking traffic. Even if the accident seems minor, it’s generally best to notify the authorities. In most cases, having a police report can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.

Step 3: Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver involved. Key information to collect includes:

• Names and contact numbers
• License plate numbers
• Insurance company and policy number
• Make, model, and color of vehicles involved

Step 4: Document the Scene

Take photos from various angles, including close-ups of damage, license plates, and any skid marks or road signs nearby. These photos can provide valuable evidence if there are questions about what happened.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

After you’ve documented the scene and ensured everyone’s safety, report the accident to your insurance company. Providing them with a clear account and the photos you took will help streamline your claim.

Types of Collisions and How They Impact Your Vehicle

Knowing the different types of collisions can help you better understand the potential damage to your vehicle and make informed decisions about repairs.

1. Rear-End Collisions – These are among the most common types and often lead to bumper and trunk damage. Rear-end accidents can also impact the exhaust and frame alignment.
2. Side-Impact Collisions – Also known as “T-bone” accidents, side collisions can cause significant damage to doors and windows, and can also impact the vehicle’s structure.
3. Head-On Collisions – While these are more severe, even a minor front-end collision can cause engine and radiator damage.
4. Single-Vehicle Collisions – These include hitting objects like guardrails or trees, often resulting in side or bumper damage.

How to Protect Your Vehicle After a Collision

Once you’ve managed the immediate needs after a collision, it’s time to think about repairs. Even if the damage appears minor, having a professional inspection can ensure there’s no hidden damage that could cause problems down the line. Here’s what we recommend:

1. Get a Collision Damage Assessment – Visit a trusted body shop, like OHS Body Shop, for a full damage assessment. Sometimes what appears to be minor can be more extensive than it looks.
2. Check Your Insurance Coverage – Review your insurance policy to see what repairs are covered. Depending on your coverage, certain types of damage may be partially or fully covered.
3. Consider Repairing Sooner Rather Than Later – Postponing repairs can lead to worsening damage, particularly if there’s exposed metal, fluid leaks, or compromised safety features.

Staying Proactive: Tips for Avoiding Collisions

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are ways to stay proactive and reduce the likelihood of a collision.

Defensive Driving

Defensive driving is about staying alert and anticipating the actions of other drivers. This means keeping a safe following distance, signaling turns and lane changes, and obeying speed limits. Defensive driving courses are also a great way to learn tips and techniques.

Avoid Distractions

Distractions are one of the leading causes of collisions. Avoid using your phone, adjusting controls, or eating while driving. Each of these can divert your attention away from the road.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Keeping your car in good shape can prevent issues that may lead to accidents. For example, worn-out brakes or tires with low tread can make it difficult to stop quickly, especially in bad weather.

Learn more about defensive driving in this article from the National Safety Council.

Final Thoughts

Collision preparedness is about knowing how to stay safe on the road and how to handle the aftermath of an accident with confidence. By keeping emergency supplies in your car, knowing the right steps to take if a collision happens, and taking preventive steps like defensive driving, you can drive with greater peace of mind.

If you ever find yourself in need of assistance after an accident, OHS Body Shop is here to help with everything from collision assessments to full repairs. Remember, you’re not alone out there! Let’s keep our roads safe, drive smart, and look out for each other.