With an increasing number of us travelling abroad for our annual family holidays, we’re having to get to grips with driving on the other side of the road, speed limits and foreign street signs, as well as how the locals get around! It’s exciting and liberating to be able to drive from location to location and not be restricted to one resort or location for the duration of your break. But with this freedom comes the possibility of things going wrong.
Car Accident Abroad
Image Source: Pixabay
Many drivers get on the roads abroad without considering the consequences of being involved in a road accident on holiday. Or what they should do to ensure everyone gets home again safely. Having a car accident attorney on your side is of course a step in the right direction. But what else can you do to avoid a car accident abroad?
Read on for some straightforward advice to help keep you and your family safe.
Research Ahead
Conducting a little research before you travel will certainly give you more confidence on foreign roads and support your side of any legal case, it can also help you to avoid a traffic collision. Find out what documents you are expected to have on you whilst behind the wheel. Check if you need an International Driving Permit. Take a look at some of the road signs you’re likely to encounter and get to grips with the speed limits in certain areas. Check if you’re required to have any additional equipment in your vehicle such as a visibility jacket or a warning triangle and remember that if you’re hiring a vehicle at your destination then it is your responsibility to provide all these things. And make sure you know which side of the road you will be driving on!
Documents you’ll Need
Like in most scenarios, it’s always better to be prepared, and having the right documents with you will certainly help if you find yourself in trouble. Your driver’s licence and insurance documents are a necessity, as are the vehicle registration documents. Ensure you have the details of your insurance company available, the details of your attorney and information on your nearest embassy.
Your First Steps
If you do find yourself involved in a car accident. Then it’s important to approach the situation as you would if you were at home. Keep calm, exit the vehicle if it is safe to do so and call the emergency services if there are any injuries, and get in touch with the police. It’s important to know the emergency services number of the country you’re visiting!
Try to take as many notes as possible about the incident and take photographic or video evidence if possible. This includes damage to the vehicles involved, the position of the sun if you believe it may have been a factor, the road conditions, the time of day and the details of any witnesses. When the police arrive, simply follow their instructions and help them with their investigation. When you’re ready, contact your insurance company and your attorney.
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