What should you do immediately after a traffic accident?

After a traffic accident, notifying your insurance company is a critical step because it initiates the claims process and helps you secure coverage for damages resulting from the incident. Insurance companies need timely notification to properly assess the situation, gather evidence, and provide assistance according to your policy. This can also help in determining fault and protecting your interests in any potential disputes arising from the accident.

Addressing the other options: Leaving the scene, despite potential traffic issues, is illegal and can result in severe penalties. Exchanging information solely with witnesses neglects the vital step of ensuring you also gather information from other drivers involved, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes. Lastly, waiting for the other driver to contact you can lead to missed opportunities to document the incident and fulfill your obligations post-accident, such as notifying your insurance.