Imagine driving in Iceland or Bangkok and having a collision. Not your souvenir, right? Instead of this mess, you might like Madison car detailing at home. If you find yourself in this situation abroad, what should you do first? Let’s get into the details so you’re not surprised.

Safety over all. Check your passengers and yourself for injuries. It’s like a quick inventory after a bumpy trip. Calling 911 if someone is harmed should be as automatic as strapping up. Remember the global emergency number, 112 in Europe, or learn the local equivalent before you leave—scrambling for this info in a crisis is as helpful as a submarine screen door.

After the immediate danger and medical issues are addressed, the situation must be made safe. Consider activating your caution lights, flares, or warning triangles like identifying your wilderness region. Not only is this about your safety, but it also prevents further accidents from turning a terrible scene into a blockbuster catastrophe movie.

Now that the scene is safe, document everything. Use your smartphone to take pictures like a tourist visiting a landmark. Take photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and weather. This is proof for insurance claims and legal matters, not just your travel blog. Imagine collecting components for a puzzle you’ll solve later.

Share your license, insurance, and contact information with the other driver. Like a business meeting contact card exchange, but less fun. Be nice yet avoid admitting fault. Some places interpret “I’m sorry” as an acknowledgment of liability. Let the authorities determine fault—this isn’t a courtroom drama.

Local police should be notified of the accident. It may seem like a chore if no one is wounded, yet many countries demand it. Additionally, that police record is a goldmine for home insurance claims. Without it, proving your argument could be like teaching a kid quantum physics.