What to do after a car accident: Hybrid cars

We all know that getting into a car accident is stressful – but did you know if you drive a hybrid car, there are a few more things you need to be aware of? Hybrid powertrains are unique systems that use complex electronics and high-voltage batteries to power your vehicle, so they require a few pieces of special care after a collision. Toyota of Orlando is “Making It Simple™” – check out our guide on what to do after a car accident if you drive a hybrid.

What to do after a car accident in a hybrid car specifically

Remember, we said that hybrid cars like our Toyota of Orlando options use high-voltage batteries. They can become dangerous after a crash, so make sure you never touch any cables or components that have high-voltage warnings if you’re checking out your car. Further, if you see smoke, leaking fluids, or hear odd noises (like hissing or gurgling) coming from your hybrid car battery, move away from the area and wait for emergency responders. You should also remember:

• Hybrid powertrains are quiet – your car may be on even if you don’t hear the engine. Check your dashboard lights to ensure the car is off once you’re parked in a safe place, and don’t forget to set your parking brake.
• Let emergency responders and Orlando tow companies know that you’re driving a hybrid when you contact them.
• Don’t try to disconnect the battery yourself. Only trained professionals and responders should attempt to disconnect hybrid car batteries – you could injure yourself or damage your car.
• Don’t try to tow your hybrid car yourself. Some hybrids need to be towed on flatbeds (rather than with their rear wheels touching the ground) to prevent damage to your hybrid system and also reduce shock risk.

 

What to watch for after an accident in hybrid cars

What should you look out for after a car accident in a hybrid?

• Warning lights and error messages. Be vigilant in watching your dash – if you see any new lights or messages pop up, let our Orlando Toyota auto service center know ASAP so they can get under the hood and look around.
• Odd smells, sounds, or feelings of heat. If you notice a weird smell (like chemicals), hissing noises, or heat coming from the battery, you need to contact Toyota of Orlando ASAP. Don’t try to drive the car – move away from it to protect your safety.
• Delayed symptoms like smoke. If you see smoke coming from your hybrid car battery after a car accident, it may have been damaged and you need to seek professional help as soon as you possibly can.

What to do after a car accident with hybrids and insurance

What’s the insurance process like after a collision if you drive an Orlando Toyota hybrid? Here are some things to keep in mind.

• You should ask for a detailed inspection – you’ll want them to take special care with the battery, the cooling system, and all electrical components.
• Know that repair costs may be higher – hybrid batteries and electronics may cost more to fix than in a typical gas car.
• Save all paperwork – receipts, estimates, and communications with your insurance company for your car’s records.

Now you know how to handle what to do after a car accident in an Orlando Toyota hybrid – let’s brush up on a few other car accident preparedness tips so you know how to react.

Step 1: Make sure everyone is safe.

Your first step after a hybrid car accident is to see if anyone is hurt – check yourself and all of your passengers. Don’t move anyone unless there’s immediate danger (like a fire), and call 911 immediately. Here are a few more tips:

• Move your car if you can – you want to get off the road and out of the way of traffic. Once you’re safely parked, turn your hazard lights on.
• If you can’t move your car, you should look for a safe spot on the side of the road to stand.

Step #2: Involve emergency responders.

It’s important to call 911 after a car accident, even a minor one – you’ll want an accident report from the police for your insurance company. Further, if anyone is injured, you want their care to be noted and documented right away. Also, tell emergency responders that your car is a hybrid so they know what to be aware of when they arrive at the scene.

Step #3: Document everything.

Take pictures and videos of everything – all of the vehicles involved in the accident, the position of the cars, the road conditions, and any road signs or warning signs on the Orlando road you’re on. Be sure to get up close and personal with the damage, taking plenty of photos and videos to document it. You should also:

• Exchange information with the other driver. Get their name and contact info, their insurance details, and the make, model, and license plate number of their vehicle.
• Talk to any witnesses. You should get their contact information in case they’re needed for insurance purposes or a court case.

Step #4: Don’t admit fault.

You shouldn’t apologize or admit blame – just stick to the facts when talking to the police and other drivers. Police will be able to determine who is at fault from the facts and document the incident accordingly.

Step #5: Call your insurance company.

You should report the car accident as soon as possible – call your insurance company to get the claim started. Again, stick with the facts, give them the Orlando police report, and let them do their job.

Call Toyota of Orlando for help after an accident

If you need help after a car accident – hybrid car or not – we’re here! Toyota of Orlando is ready and waiting to assist you and get you safely back on the road. Contact our Toyota Collision Center today at (407) 298-6006 or stop by 3575 Vineland Road to see us.

Posted in Toyota of Orlando Body Shop | No Comments »