How to Respond to Traffic Accidents
- Contact the Police
Although the instigator should mainly report the incident, the victim is also obliged to report to the police. First, park your vehicle at a distance where it will not cause obstruction. Dial 110 to connect to the police department and request for an ambulance if injured people are present to ensure their safety.
- On-site Inspection
Once the police arrive, have them inspect the area. Do not leave the area (except when injured) until they arrive. Failure to do so may lead you to losing your eligibility to receive insurance later on.
- Mutual Confirmation
The victim should confirm the following:
・ Name, Address, and Contact Number of the instigator
・ Plate number of the instigator’s vehicle
・ Name, address, and contact number of instigator’s workplace
※ (If the victim had an accident during work hours, both the instigator of the accident, and the company where the victim is working is liable for paying the compensation)
Do not forget to also inform the other party your name, address, and contact number.
- Document the Incident Yourself
Since memories can fade over time, it is recommended to take pictures of the area right after the incident happened while your memory is still clear. Keep your records until the negotiations for compensation is over.
- Undergo a Medical Check-up
Be sure to have a doctor take a look at you since there are cases where some people think they only got mild injuries during the accident but it turns out to be serious later on. It is always best to have a doctor see your injuries no matter how mild you think they may be.
- Secure an Employment Verification Form (Shuurou Shoumeisho)
If you are injured to the point that you are not able to work, contact your company and ask them to make your employment verification form (shuurou shomeisho). The form will be needed if you claim compensation for damages due to absence from work to the instigator or insurance company.
※ If you get injured in a traffic accident, you can be compensated through the instigator’s automobile liability insurance or other optional insurance he has.
※ If you get involved in a traffic accident while at work or commuting to work, you can be compensated through industrial accident compensation insurance.
