Auto insurance — what to do if there’s an accident
Even the most careful driver can be hit. All it takes is a moment of inattention from the other driver and you are both in trouble. So the first thing is checking whether you or any of your passengers are hurt. If there’s even the slightest chance of injuries, you should call for medical assistance. Never risk someone’s health. A secondary reason is that if there are injuries, they should be recorded accurately by doctors at the hospital so that, when it comes to a claim, there will not be any arguments about who was injured and how seriously.Second, make sure the scene of the accident is as safe as possible. If the vehicles are blocking the road or there is debris that might puncture the tires of passing vehicles, you should do what you can to make the road passable. But, if you have time before you move the vehicles, it’s always useful to have a photograph of the scene. Fortunately most cellphones and portable computers come with cameras built-in, so this should not be a problem.
Third, staying calm no matter how annoying or frustrating the other driver may be, you need to collect basic information starting with name and address, telephone contact number, license plate number and state, and the driver’s insurance details. Remember that, if the driver is in a truck or vehicle being used during the course of employment, you are also going to want details of the employer. Similarly, if the driver has borrowed the vehicle, you need details of the owner.
Fourth, you need to collect information about the accident. If there were witnesses, take their details and contact numbers. In addition to the photographs, you might write yourself a quick summary of what happened, drawing a plan so you have everything written down while your memory is sharp. This should include the weather and general road conditions.
Fifth, you now need to collect information about the damage to both vehicles. There’s always a risk the damage may later be exaggerated or denied so, if you have that camera, take pictures. If not, write descriptions of where the damage is and how bad it appears to be.
Finally, if the police and ambulance services attend the scene, take details of badge numbers and names, and check where you will be able to collect a copy of the accident report.
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