Just Had A Car Accident - What Do You Do?

What to do after a car accident? Get The Facts. Sounds easy, but many people are distracted by the moment and forget to do this. INFORMATION IS CRITICAL. It is important to get the names, address and phone numbers of everyone involved. Also, gather a description of the car(s) and license plate number(s), and make sure to get the insurance company and the vehicle identification number of everyone involved when you’re at the scene of the accident.

• Get out of your vehicle and provide assistance to anyone who is injured.
• Call the police or highway patrol immediately. They can then contact emergency personnel for you, if needed.
• Take photographs of your damaged vehicle and the scene. Note the date and time that the images were taken.
• If possible protect the accident scene by setting up flares, putting up cones or moving your vehicle off the road. Think about keeping these items in your trunk at all times in the event of an accident.
• Once the police arrive, give them as much information as you can about what occurred. Do not admit fault; simply give the facts.
• Ask the investigating officer for a copy of the police report, as you may have to submit it with your insurance claim.
• Write down the names and addresses of all drivers and passengers involved in the accident. Also, note the license plate number, make, model and year of each car involved.
• You should also note the name of the other driver’s insurance company and driver’s license numbers.
• Write down the name and contact information for all witnesses to the accident.
• Note the name and badge numbers of the police and emergency personnel who assisted with your accident.
• Write down as many details as you can remember about the accident, and then call your insurance agent to report your claim.
• Keep all records of correspondence that you have regarding your claim, including the date, name and title of the person that you talked to about the accident.
• Keep a record of any expenses that you incurred as a result of the accident. Depending on your policy, you may be entitled to reimbursement for those expenses.

EMERGE INSURANCE AGENCY
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