Image Source: Cara Beth Buie, Unsplash
Phoenix is home to some of the busiest desert roads in the U.S. Residents must navigate the fast-merging lanes of Interstate 17 and Interstate 10, as well as sprawling suburban intersections. As a visitor, these roadways can be particularly stressful, especially when you’re driving a rental car.
Taking every precaution possible is essential, including a quick-thinking action plan should an accident ever occur. This includes a list of emergency contacts, on-scene actions, reporting, documentation, and insurance considerations.
Emergency Contacts
Keep your phone fully charged while driving. Let your close friends and family know where you are, and even share your GPS location. Should you get into an accident, GPS sharing can serve as vital documentation and help construct a timeline of events.
Make sure all emergency numbers are loaded into your phone, including chosen emergency contacts, 911, and the number of a trusted local law firm that can help you receive car accident compensation in Phoenix. Contacting a lawyer after completing your on-scene checklist can help them get the ball rolling on your claim; this step also supports your timeline of events.
Immediate On-Scene Actions
Taking smart, immediate action will also provide critical evidence for your legal team.
If your rental car doesn’t have a dash cam, buy your own and set it up before hitting the road; you can also use your smartphone as a dash cam. Dash cams offer a timestamped record of the exact timing of the collision. They can also record immediate injuries and property damage.
Move to a safe zone, turn your hazard lights on, assess yourself and any passengers for injuries, and call 911 in that order. Then, alert your emergency contacts. If you’re able to do so, take supporting photos and videos of your injuries, car damage, and the accident scene while you wait for police and paramedics to arrive.
Reporting and Documentation
Remember, under Arizona law, drivers are required to notify the police if a car accident results in injury, death, or property damage that exceeds $2,000 in value. Make sure to document the following:
- Injuries
- Property damage
- Skid marks
- Accident scene (broken signs, trees, etc.)
- Road conditions
- Weather
- License plates
If possible, gather eyewitness statements and CCTV surveillance footage. Your lawyer will also go the extra mile to secure this type of evidence. Meticulous evidence is crucial for winning lawsuits and receiving full compensation, as Arizona operates under an at-fault insurance system.
Report the accident to the rental car agency. File an official accident report with the on-scene police officer. Request the DR number for the report so that you can retrieve a copy from the local police station.
If your injuries are serious, a paramedic will arrive on scene to administer medical care and take you to the nearest hospital. For less serious injuries, visit an urgent care clinic immediately after leaving the scene. Save all medical documentation, including ongoing treatments, for insurance purposes.
Stay Prepared
Following a strict action plan makes all the difference after a rental car accident. Start by setting up a dash cam and a list of emergency contacts. Take immediate action after a crash before properly reporting and documenting the accident.
Follow our blog to prepare even further with more travel safety tips.
