What do you do in event of an accident?
Believe it or not, we get asked this question VERY often. Typically, it’s because many drivers spend years without getting into any accidents or fender benders so they forget the necessary steps.
Here’s a 5-step guide to refresh your memory:
- MOVE TO SAFE AREA
- CALL THE POLICE
- CALL YOUR AGENT
- GET PICTURES
- GATHER INFO
Stop your car and move to a safe area away from other traffic. If that’s not possible, flip on your hazards. If safe and able, check on the other party involved.
Even in minor accidents, a police accident report can prove invaluable when dealing with your car insurance company and other drivers. Cooperate fully, but avoid admitting fault or blaming others while at the scene. Let the police objectively judge events and determine who, if anyone, is at fault in the crash.
**CAVEAT….in most jurisdictions if the accident took place on PRIVATE PROPERTY the police will not issue a citation or complete a police report.
If the police can’t make it to the scene (which is more likely if there are no injuries), you can file an accident report through your state’s Dept Motor Vehicles
If the accident is minor with no injuries to both parties, PLEASE CALL YOUR AGENT FIRST. We will be able to advise you properly.
In certain circumstances, filing a claim may not even be necessary.
Make sure the accident is well-documented. Snapping photos will make the claims process easier.
- Driver and passenger names
- License plate numbers
- Insurance info or photo of insurance card
- Makes and models of all vehicles involved
- Contact info for any eyewitnesses
- Location of the accident
- The name and badge number of any responding police officers
BE SAFE OUT THERE!
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