Though you hope it will never happen, chances are that you may find yourself involved in an automotive accident while driving your certified BMW. Here is a checklist of what to do in case that happens.

PREPARE AHEAD OF TIME — While we hope you will never be involved in car accident with your certified BMW or any vehicle, one of the best things you can do for yourself is to be prepared for one. Be sure to keep a copy of your ID, your emergency contacts, and a medical card listing any conditions or medical allergies with you at all times. In your car, keep a copy of your insurance card and vehicle registration along with pens, paper, and a disposable camera if you don’t have a camera phone.

IMMEDIATELY AFTER AN ACCIDENT — Being involved in an accident, even a relatively minor one, can cause confusion. Remember to take necessary safety measures first:
* Stop your vehicle and get to a safe location
* Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured
* Contact the police and let them know what happened. They will let you know if police will be required to take statements.

COLLECT INFORMATION — It is important to gather information quickly and politely from the other drivers involved.
* Accident information — Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, specifically their name, address, phone number, and email. Also note the year, make and model of the cars, the license plate number and state, insurance carrier and policy number. Note the location, time and weather conditions of the accident as well.
* Witnesses & Police — Also be sure to take the name, address, phone number, and email of any witnesses to the accident. If a police officer is present, get their name, phone number, badge number, and police report number.

DOCUMENT THE ACCIDENT — If you happen to have a camera on you, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, the accident scene, and the people involved in the accident.

REPORT THE ACCIDENT — Report the accident to your insurance company and file a accident report with the Pennsylvania DOT.