We always think that a car collision is something that only happens to other people. It seems remarkably unlikely that we will ever be involved. Unfortunately, statistics suggest that we will all be involved in a car accident at some point in our lives. It's not always a question of if, but when. Most car accidents are minor bumps. In most cases there is only a little superficial damage to your car and you'll drive away safely.

No matter how minor the accident, you must know how to respond in this situation. Being involved in a car crash will send your body into shock. You won't think as clearly as usual. For that reason, it's important to learn the effective procedures now. That way, you'll be equipped to handle the situation if and when it happens. Here are the main things you need to do at the scene of an accident.

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Make sure everyone's okay. Nothing is more important than the safety of yourself, passengers and others around you. Check yourself for any signs of damage. This can be surface cuts from smashed glass, whiplash or other related injuries. Then check your passengers before visiting any other cars involved in the collision. You should always carry a first aid kit in the event that a crash occurs. This way you can deal with immediate medical problems before paramedics arrive. If there is a serious injury, call the emergency services immediately.

Move the vehicles safely out off the road. If the cars are still in working order, drive them safely onto the verge or onto the hard shoulder. You can may need to push them, just make sure someone is diverting traffic away from you. Carry high visibility jackets so that you can easily be seen by oncoming traffic. Likewise, put your hazard lights on and put out any reflective cones or markers you may have. This information is all included in your car theory test, but in the heat of the moment it is easily forgotten.

Gather as many details as possible from the scene. We understand that you will be shaken up, but write down details as soon as possible. When it comes to recalling the event, your memory will be hazy and clouded by adrenaline. Take down every possible detail of the accident. First of all, take the license, registration and insurance details of any other people involved. Then take note of the weather conditions and sketch a map of the accident. Write down speeds and any other details. Take the names and addresses of witnesses and police officers. In the event of filing personal injury claims with a professional car accident lawyer (learn here for more) or seeking out prosecution, these details will be vital to how successful your case will be.

Finally, never drive away from the scene. When you've been involved in a crash that involved damage to property or others, it is mandatory that you stop. ‘Property' refers to another car, motorcycle, home or roadside feature. In minor cases there will be a fine to pay. In more severe cases, it will be seen as a ‘hit and run' which carries a prison sentence.

Remember, our roads are dangerous places. Drive carefully and be vigilant. If the worst happens, follow these simple steps.