What to Do When a Car Collision Occurs?
4 Answers
First, try to take photos of the scene and then move to a place that does not obstruct traffic to avoid causing congestion. Traffic police will determine accident liability according to standard procedures, and the insurance company will assess the vehicle damage. After the vehicle is repaired or treatment is completed, compensation will be handled based on the liability determined by the traffic police.
Don't panic after a car collision—your safety comes first. Immediately turn on your hazard lights, place a warning triangle 50 to 150 meters behind your vehicle, and wear a reflective vest at night. If anyone is injured, call 120 immediately to help—it's a legal obligation. Then, report the accident to the police by calling 122, and take panoramic photos of the scene, including license plates, collision marks, and road markings. When contacting your insurance company, explain the basic situation but avoid admitting fault prematurely. While waiting for traffic police, don’t move your vehicle or agree to private settlements—especially in accidents involving injuries, always follow official procedures. Vehicle damage can be repaired, but there’s no second chance with human lives. Many insurance company apps now allow online reporting, which is very convenient.
Stay calm after a collision – I've seen too many secondary accidents caused by panic. First, move your car to a safe spot without disturbing the scene, turn on hazard lights, and set up warning triangles to protect yourself. Take photos showing close-ups of collision points, vehicle positions relative to each other, and skid marks – these are crucial for determining liability. While waiting for traffic police after reporting, photograph the other driver's license and exchange contact details. Don't repair the car before the insurance adjuster arrives, as it may affect damage assessment. For minor scratches, use the fast claim channel to save time. When towing to a 4S shop, request designated accident vehicle storage to prevent further damage to your car.
In case of a collision, first take a deep breath and unlock the car doors to facilitate rescue, but do not exit the vehicle until safety is confirmed. Call the police to report the incident, clearly stating your location. On urban roads, place warning signs 50 meters away, while on highways, they should be placed at least 150 meters away. Take comprehensive photos and videos, including surrounding traffic signs and the status of traffic lights. For minor accidents, use the 12123 mobile app for quick processing—upload photos and it’s done in five minutes. If liability is unclear, wait for professional traffic police to handle the situation. For repairs, choose a certified repair shop and keep invoices for insurance claims. Many dash cams now have emergency recording features—remember to save the evidence promptly.
