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Steps to take after car accident – what to know

For many people who experience a car accident, especially for the first time, it can be new territory and a bit disconcerting to know what to do beyond making sure everyone is ok. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind if you are in an accident.

1. Make sure that both yourself and everyone in your car is unhurt. Take a second to breathe and focus.

2. Make a quick assessment of the damage inside and outside the car. Is there a fire, ice, leaking fluids, additional oncoming traffic or other dangers to consider before leaving your vehicle?

3. Should you decide to leave your vehicle there is no need to talk to the other driver regardless of their behavior. Especially watch your words and never admit guilt. The only information you need to share is your insurance information.

4. In a minor collision, and if both parties agree, there is no need to have a cop come to the site. You can file a report with their department as soon as you are able, and contact your insurance to make a claim.

5. If the accident is major, for instance if a tow truck will be needed to remove vehicles, an ambulance is needed, or the other party is getting angry or violent focus on calling 9-1-1 and getting yourself and your passengers to a safe location.

6. If your car is in need of a tow truck, call your insurance accident hotline and ask for a recommendation to a company they commonly work with so that you know the cost will be covered.

7. Take pictures of damage and write down the events as you remember them as soon as possible. This will help with insurance claims and help you keep events straight as your adrenaline rush from being in an accident wears off. Write down street names, what you were doing and catalog the damage to both cars. Photos are very helpful.

8. When the police officer arrives, remember to treat him as your ally. Have your insurance card and drivers license ready. If you have a hard time keeping track of your insurance card, your insurance provider may have an app to help you get easy access to your account number and claims department so you always have it on hand. Answer his questions calmly and truthfully without accusations. They are trained to handle situations and have experience in piecing together the facts of the accident.

9. Let him know which direction you were headed, if there were red/green lights or stop signs or other signaling. Mention any injuries you or your passengers suffered. Make statements only about your part of the situation and don’t make assumptions about the other driver.

10. There is no need for the other driver to ever contact you once you have decided to let the insurance company take care of it. That is what you pay them for. They will handle the claim, repair payments, and any other complaints brought on by the other party. Remember to stay calm and be respectful throughout the process.

11. There are several different kinds of insurance claims.

    • At-fault claims mean that you were responsible for the accident and your insurance company will still pay for both the other persons repairs as well as your own, but you won’t get your deductible back, and most likely your premiums will go up.
    • A Total loss claim is when your vehicle is damaged beyond repair or the cost of repair is too high. You will receive a check from your insurance for the determined amount of the cars value.

Protect yourself and your family finances by knowing your rights and what to do and not do in the event of an accident. Be sure to read more of our helpful Tips & Tricks online!