Immediately After the Accident (regardless of severity):
* Your position: If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle to a safe location off the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.
* Check for injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call emergency services (911 or your local equivalent) if anyone is injured.
* Contact information: Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, driver's license numbers, and vehicle information (license plate, make, model, year). Take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, the scene of the accident (including street signs and road markings), and any visible injuries.
* Police report: If the accident involves injuries, significant property damage, or a disagreement about fault, call the police to file a report. Obtain a copy of the police report.
Subsequently (depending on the severity of damage):
* Your vehicle's fluids: Check for leaks of oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, or brake fluid. These should be addressed by a mechanic.
* Your vehicle's condition: Assess the extent of the damage to the PT Cruiser. This includes body damage (dents, scratches, broken lights), mechanical damage (steering, suspension, brakes, engine), and airbag deployment.
* Your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you gathered at the scene.
* Your vehicle's repair: If the damage is minor, you might be able to get it repaired at a local body shop. If the damage is extensive, your insurance company might declare it a total loss. In either case, you'll need to seek professional repair.
* Your transportation: If your PT Cruiser is undrivable, you'll need to arrange alternative transportation.
Important Considerations for a 2007 PT Cruiser:
Because it's an older vehicle, the cost of repairs might exceed the car's value. Your insurance company will determine whether it's more cost-effective to repair the damage or declare the vehicle a total loss. Parts for older vehicles can also be harder to find and more expensive.
In short, you don't just "change" one thing; you change your actions, your vehicle's status, your insurance coverage, and possibly your transportation method depending on the accident's outcome. Prioritizing safety and following proper procedures are crucial.
