Knowing how to deal with a fender bender is key to making the experience as stress-free as possible; hence, this post by Jim Ackney in AMSOIL: Jim Ackney shares with you some tips for handling this type of crash.

What is a Fender Bender?

A fender bender refers to a minor car accident that occurs at low speeds. Although this type of collision does not cause severe or fatal injuries to the drivers, it does cause the fenders of the cars to bend; hence the name used for this type of collision. Usually, fender benders occur when drivers are distracted or tired; therefore, even the most experienced and cautious driver can get involved in a minor car crash. If you've never been involved in this type of driving inconvenience, you'll want to know what steps to take to navigate the situation in the least stressful way possible; to that end, read the tips listed below.

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How to Handle a Fender Bender

First, Regain Your Calm

Any type of car accident is as unpredictable as unpleasant; hence, it is normal to feel shocked and nervous after experiencing a crash; even if it is minor and at low speed. In this regard, you must remain calm before dealing with any inconvenience behind the wheel. For example, if you were to get rear-ended, you would probably feel an adrenaline rush, and your heart rate would accelerate; nonetheless, you would need to calm down and make sure you're okay before getting out of your vehicle to deal with the situation. So, in the event of having a fender bender, make sure to stay calm and make sensible decisions, and handle the situation as wisely as possible.

Call the Police

Did you know that you must report a fender bender to the police if you estimate the damage to your vehicle to be more than $2,000? Although a low-speed car accident does not cause major property damage, it can cause minor dents, misalignment of tires, or damage to the electrical system; therefore, fender benders usually end up being a bill that exceeds $2,000. With that in mind, don't hesitate to call the police in the event of having a minor car accident.

Move Your Vehicle Out of Traffic

Make sure to move your vehicle out of the way onto the shoulder of the road to avoid obstructing traffic and to reduce the chances of causing a secondary crash. If you have emergency safety cones in your trunk, don't hesitate to place them behind your vehicle to alert approaching drivers about the inconvenience.

Take Photos and Videos

While waiting for the police, use your cell phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Be sure to photograph your vehicle from every possible angle; likewise, take pictures of the license plate and condition of the other vehicle involved in the crash. In general, gathering evidence will help you describe how the accident unfolded to your insurance company.

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Exchange Information

One of the most critical steps you should take after a fender bender is to exchange information with the other driver involved in the crash; to that end, approach them and ask them if they are okay; if so, share your personal information and ask them for the following:

• Name
• Address
• Telephone number
• Their insurance company's name
• Their insurance policy ID
• Their vehicle license plate

If the other driver refuses to share any of their information with you, there's no problem if you have at least a photograph of their vehicle's license plate. Still, it's helpful to have more information to facilitate the insurance claim process.

Call Your Insurance Company

Finally, call your insurance company to report the accident. In most cases, expect your insurance agent to contact you later for more information and assistance on what steps to take if you decide to file a claim.

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