After an accident, you’ll be understandably shaken and possibly even injured. You’re worried about your own safety and that of the other individuals involved. You’re worried about your car. You’re worried about the legal ramifications. And now, here come the police.
So what do you do? We’ve created a step-by-step guide to explain just that. Keep reading to help yourself prepare for what to do in the event of an auto accident.
Been in an Auto Accident? Here’s What to Do
Step 1: Get to safety as soon as possible.
If your car is in the flow of traffic, turn it on and slowly move it to the side and far away from other cars. Turn off your engine. Click on your hazard lights.
Step 2: Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call the police.
Look over yourself and any other passengers who may be in your vehicle with you. Check everyone for injuries of any kind. If necessary, contact emergency medical services right away. If you’re in doubt about an injury or the responsiveness of an individual, calling the ambulance anyway.
You also need to call the police at this time.
Step 3: Speak to the other driver(s).
Check the safety of the other drivers and passengers involved as well. Get their full names, contact information, and insurance information (including their policy number).
Step 4: Look for eyewitnesses.
Did anyone see the accident? If so, see if they will tell you their version of the incident and get their names and contact numbers as well.
Step 5: Take pictures.
Always take as many pictures as possible of your injuries, others’ injuries, your vehicle, the other drivers’ vehicles, and the entire scene.
Step 6: Write down what happened.
It’s easy to forget things even if you think you won’t. Write down your version of the accident right away so that you have an accurate memory of what occurred.
Step 7: Obtain a police report.
Speak to the responding officer. Get their badge number and full name. Obtain your rightful copy of the police report.
Step 8: Contact your insurance agency.
Your insurance agency needs to know what happened. Contact them at once and begin the claims process.
Step 10: Arrange for a rental car.
If you have rental car insurance, have a rental car arranged for you.
Step 11: Take your vehicle to the auto body shop.
Take your car into a mechanic of your choice or one that is pre-approved with your insurance agency.
Step 12: Get a decision between full replacement or repairs.
After giving your estimate to your insurance adjuster, if your car is “totaled” by your insurance company, you’ll get a check for its replacement instead of getting repairs.
Step 13: If getting repairs, get repair approval.
If your adjuster approves your estimate, go ahead with your repairs.
Step 14: Check into optional coverage if you have it.
Speak with your insurance agent about utilizing optional coverage, such as new car replacement coverage or GAP coverage.
Take Another Look at Your Insurance Policy Today
Speak to your Integrity Insurance agent today about your current insurance policy. By working with an experienced and reputable insurance agent, you’ll obtain the best possible policy and ensure your protection in the event of an accident.
Our agents would be glad to sit down with you at any time to discuss your current coverage or a new policy. Stop by or give us a call today.
