What to Do after a Car Accident: 11 Steps to Take
Anyone who has ever been involved in a car accident would probably agree that it is a traumatic experience not worth repeating. Since accidents do happen, it’s best to be prepared.
While in the midst of this confusing and adrenaline-filled situation, it’s important to try to remain calm and in control (we know, easier said than done). If you are prepared with the knowledge of what do to after a car accident, you will better be able to achieve calm amid the chaos.
Read and reread the following 11 steps. Understanding what is required of you after an auto accident can lessen injuries and make the insurance claims process easier.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
- Ensure safety of everyone involved. If anyone has suffered bodily injury, call 911 immediately to receive necessary emergency medical attention. You should also to report any injuries to your insurance company.
- Move your vehicle to safety. If it is possible to safely drive your vehicle, pull to the side of the road and out of the path of oncoming traffic. Activate your hazard warning lights.
- Stay with your vehicle. Never leave the scene of an accident until all necessary information has been exchanged and you have filed a police report. If someone has suffered injuries and you leave, you could face serious penalties.
- Call 911 and file a police report. If you don’t get a police report, it’s going to be your word against the other driver’s. With that said, it’s in your favor to bring in a neutral third party. The police officer will take statements from all drivers involved. Write down the investigating officer’s name and badge number in case your insurance agent or attorney needs to speak with the officer about the accident.
- Contact your car insurance company immediately. The sooner you file an auto insurance claim, the sooner your insurance company can begin working on your case, and the quicker your car can be repaired.
- Schedule an appointment with an appraiser within 24 hours of reporting the claim. Once you have met with your appraiser, you can review the damage appraisal and list of repair shops provided to you. Learn more here.
- Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than the police or your insurance company. If you speak openly about the details of the accident to others involved, you could unknowingly be admitting fault. Protect yourself legally and keep your opinion to yourself.
- Exchange appropriate information with the other driver. Write down their name, address, and phone number; license number, make, model and year of the car; insurer name, policy number, and insurance agent contact information. Your insurance company will need this information when determining who is responsible for damages. If you don’t have your insurance card with you, don’t worry. You can bring proof of insurance to the police station within 24 hours. You could still receive a traffic citation, however, for not having proof of insurance.
- Photograph the vehicles involved. Capture any damage to your car or other cars. Documenting damage with pictures will solidify your insurance claim.
- Gather witness information. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses, along with their consent to have your insurance company or attorney call them for questioning.
- Keep detailed records. Strengthen your insurance claim by writing down the details of the accident. Also keep track of any medical treatment received or expenses incurred following the accident.
Following these steps after an auto accident will save you a lot of headache. If you have any questions about car accidents and auto insurance claims, contact our independent insurance agents at H&K Insurance.
