Car Accidents

There have been so many stories recently about car accidents, from fender benders, to parking lot scratches, to all out accidents, that I wanted to be sure to talk about car accidents and what to do.

So, first off if an accident occurs, if at all possible, drive the car out of the road and pull it to the side. If the car can't be driven, then just leave it where it is.

Second - if there is more than very minor damage, call the police. In many countries they do not get involved with minor accidents, but just about any accident will now involve damage over $1000, so it's necessary to get a police report.

Third - call your host family at this point if the children are with you. Be sure to stay calm, let them know if the car is able to be driven, and whether or not you need to have them come to you to help with details, children, or both.

Once you are in a safe place you can start to talk with the driver of the other car. Most times, you can exchange information quite easily - however, if the other driver is aggresive or you do not feel safe for any reason, wait in the car and call the police.

When you speak with the other driver, the first rule is DO NOT ADMIT IT'S YOUR FAULT (even if it is...). That is really up to the insurance companies and police to figure out - but you don't need to share too.

Things to give to the driver of the other car (and they should give you the same information):

• Your WA State Drivers License Number and expiration
• Your insurance company name and policy number
• Make, model and year of the car that you are driving
• License plate number of your car

If you think anyone is hurt, or you are concerned if the kids are there, you need to ask for an ambulance. It is better to be safe than sorry - for both yourself and your kids.

If you were using the car on your own, now is the time to phone your host family to let them know. Be sure to tell them where you are, and whether or not you want them to come.

Once that is done, be sure to take pictures of the accident - of both your car and the other car. Include all of the other car, including parts that were not impacted by the accident. The worst that can happen (but it does) is that you start with a small accident, and afterwards hear about replacing parts of another car that were not part of the accident...

If you do not have a camera on your cell phone, ask your host family to buy disposable cameras for each of the family cars.

LAST... if the police are there, you can leave when they tell you that you can leave. If they did not come, do not leave until you have all of the information that you need from the other driver. If the other driver won't give you the information do easy things - like write down their license plate number, and information about their car... then call the police, and tell them you had an accident that was serious and the other driver is not cooperating and you need help. Trust me, they will come to help you.

So - if you have any questions talk with me or your host family. This is very important for everyone to know about, and to understand so there are no questions if the unthinkable occurs...