Being involved in a car accident is stressful and overwhelming. Knowing exactly what steps to take can protect your safety, legal rights, and help you get the assistance you need quickly in Nashville.

Immediate Steps After an Accident

1. Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, assess the situation:

• Check yourself and passengers for injuries
• Turn on hazard lights immediately
• If possible, move vehicles to the shoulder
• Set up warning triangles or flares if available
• Stay inside the vehicle if on a busy highway

Call 911 if:

• Anyone is injured
• There's significant vehicle damage
• The road is blocked
• You suspect the other driver is impaired

2. Document Everything

Take photos immediately:

• All vehicle damage from multiple angles
• License plates of all vehicles involved
• Driver's licenses and insurance cards
• Road conditions and traffic signs
• Skid marks or debris on the road
• Any visible injuries

Get witness information:

• Names and phone numbers
• What they observed
• Their location during the accident

3. Exchange Information

Collect from other driver(s):

• Full name and contact information
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver's license number
• Vehicle make, model, and year
• License plate number

Important: Never admit fault at the scene, even if you think you may be responsible. Let insurance companies determine liability.

When to Call a Tow Truck

Your Vehicle Needs Towing If:

Safety concerns:

• Airbags deployed
• Fluid leaks (oil, coolant, transmission)
• Structural damage to frame
• Wheels misaligned or damaged
• Hood won't close properly
• Windshield severely cracked

Mechanical issues:

• Vehicle won't start after accident
• Warning lights illuminate
• Strange noises when trying to drive
• Steering feels loose or unresponsive

Our Emergency Towing Service Provides:

• 24/7 accident response
• Fast arrival times across Nashville
• Careful handling of damaged vehicles
• Transport to your preferred shop
• Coordination with insurance companies

Dealing with Insurance

File a Claim Promptly

Contact your insurance within 24 hours:

• Report the accident details
• Provide photos and documentation
• Get a claim number
• Ask about rental car coverage
• Inquire about towing reimbursement

Many insurance policies cover:

• Towing costs up to a certain amount
• Storage fees while claim is processed
• Rental car while yours is repaired

Keep All Receipts

Save documentation for:

• Tow truck service
• Vehicle storage
• Medical expenses
• Rental car costs
• Any out-of-pocket expenses

Choosing the Right Tow Truck After an Accident

Flatbed Towing is Best for Accidents

Why flatbed towing is recommended:

• All four wheels off the ground
• No additional stress on damaged components
• Prevents further transmission damage
• Safest for vehicles with airbag deployment
• Required for AWD/4WD vehicles with drivetrain damage

Avoid Cheap or Unknown Towing Companies

Warning signs to watch for:

• Extremely low prices (may have hidden fees)
• No clear business address
• Pressure to sign documents quickly
• Unwillingness to provide written estimate
• Taking your car to their preferred shop only

Our commitment:

• Transparent pricing upfront
• Take your vehicle where YOU choose
• Work directly with your insurance
• No hidden storage or admin fees

Nashville-Specific Accident Information

Where Accidents Commonly Occur

High-traffic accident areas:

• I-24/I-40 interchange downtown
• I-65 near Briley Parkway
• I-440 during rush hours
• Broadway and major entertainment districts
• Construction zones on ongoing highway projects

Tennessee Accident Laws

Important to know:

• Tennessee is a fault-based state for accidents
• Police report may be required for insurance claims
• Hit-and-run is a criminal offense
• Moving violations can be issued at scene
• Statute of limitations is one year for injury claims

After the Tow: Next Steps

Getting Your Vehicle Repaired

Choose a repair shop wisely:

• Check online reviews
• Ask about warranties
• Get written estimates
• Verify insurance approval
• Understand timeline for repairs

If Your Vehicle is Totaled

What happens next:

• Insurance determines actual cash value
• You receive settlement minus deductible
• Title transfers to insurance company
• Remove personal belongings from vehicle
• We can transport to salvage yard if needed

Emergency Contacts to Save

Keep these numbers accessible:

• Nashville Police Non-Emergency: (615) 862-8600
• Tennessee Highway Patrol: *847
• Hook Em' Up Towing: (615) 756-5330
• Your insurance company claim line
• A trusted family member or friend

Prevention Tips

Reduce Your Accident Risk

Safe driving practices:

• Maintain safe following distance
• Avoid distracted driving
• Never drive impaired
• Adjust speed for weather conditions
• Use turn signals consistently
• Check blind spots before lane changes

Vehicle maintenance matters:

• Keep brakes in good condition
• Replace worn tires
• Ensure all lights work properly
• Regular fluid checks
• Address warning lights immediately

Conclusion

Accidents happen even to the safest drivers. Being prepared with the right knowledge and contacts makes a difficult situation more manageable. Save our number for 24/7 emergency towing so you're ready if you ever need us.

Involved in an accident? Call (615) 756-5330 for immediate towing assistance in Nashville.