No one ever plans for a car accident, but let’s be real: They can sneak up on you faster than an unexpected pothole on a Joburg highway. Whether it’s a little bumper bash or something more serious, accidents are stressful. Your brain goes into panic mode, and suddenly, remembering what to do next is as tricky as avoiding a taxi that doesn’t believe in indicators. Luckily, the king has your back with a step-by-step guide on what to do when disaster strikes.
Right after the car accident: Safety first!
- First things first: Check yourself and your passengers. If everyone is fine, move to a safe location, but don’t leave the scene.
- If anyone is injured (even if it’s just a little bump), call emergency services immediately. And remember, the king’s emergency assist line is available 24/7 at 0860 50 50 50.
- Even if you feel fine, be cautious: Some injuries don’t show up right away, and skipping medical help could cost you later.
- If it’s a minor fender bender, switch on your hazard lights and place a warning triangle behind your car.
Keep your cool and take notes about the car crash
- Accidents can make even the calmest person go full-on rage mode. Breathe. Keep a clear head because now’s the time to gather crucial details.
- Take down everything: Names, addresses, phone numbers, and ID numbers of everyone involved.
- Get the vehicle details: Licence plate numbers, make, model, colour, and check if the licence disc matches the plate.
- Note the time, location, weather conditions, and road conditions. Was it raining? Was it at an intersection? Were there potholes involved?
- Gather witness details: The more, the merrier (well, in this case).
- Snap away! Take loads of photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant street signs or traffic lights. This will help if anyone tries to play the “that didn’t happen” game later.
Bonus tip: The king has an accident form ready for you to print and keep in your cubbyhole. Download it here. And why not print one for your friends and family while you’re at it?
Call in the experts
- Report the accident to the police ASAP. If you don’t, the other party could claim it was a hit-and-run, which is a whole new level of admin you don’t want.
- Never, ever lie in your police statement. Your claim depends on an accurate record of events.
- Don’t leave the scene until the police say you can. If possible, get the officer’s name and badge number for your records.
- Call King Price at 0860 50 50 50 to start the claims process. The sooner, the better!
After the car accident: Get your claim sorted
- Keep all your documents in 1 place: The police report, accident form, photos, and any other info you collected.
- Report the accident to King Price within 30 days to avoid any issues with your claim.
- If you or anyone else got injured, let us know when submitting your claim.
- Never admit fault at the scene! Even if you think you were in the wrong, let the professionals (and your insurer) determine the liability.
The king’s royal touch
We get it, accidents are stressful. But with the king on your side, you’re never alone. From roadside assistance to getting your claim sorted in record time, we’ll have you back on the road before you can say “excess waiver.”
FAQs about car accidents and insurance claims
1. What happens if I don’t report the accident? If you don’t report it, you could be accused of a hit-and-run, and you won’t be able to claim from your insurance.
2. Do I have to call King Price’s emergency assist? Yes! If you don’t use our authorised tow trucks and emergency services, you might have to pay extra for the towing and storage.
3. Can I claim even if I wasn’t at fault? Absolutely. If another driver caused the accident, we’ll sort out your claim and try to recover costs from them.
4. What if my car is written off? If your car is written off, we’ll pay out according to your insured value so you can get back on the road.
5. How do I check my claim status? Easy! You can track your claim progress online or give us a call at 0860 50 50 50.
Final thoughts: Drive safe, stay covered!
Accidents are unpredictable, but being prepared isn’t. Save King Price’s emergency assist number (0860 50 50 50) in your phone now. That way, if the worst happens, you’ll be 1 step ahead.
Got insurance? If not, now’s the time! Get a quote from the king today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with royal cover. Click here to get started!
