After An Accident

Millions of automobile accidents occur each and every year. The best you can do is drive defensively to avoid an accident. However, if you got involved in an accident, here is something you need to know.

Always carry your auto insurance ID or identification card with your agent's name and contact number.

At the Scene of an Accident

Call police first! If you cannot call yourself, have someone else call. If there are injuries, be sure to mention it so that the phone operator can notify a medical unit.
Provide the required information to police. Ask the officer when the report will be filed and how you can obtain a copy. You may need a copy of the accident report when you submit your claim to the insurance company. Get the name of any police officers at the scene and the address and the number of the police station.
You should write down the information of all drivers involved in the accident; the names, their addresses, work and home telephone numbers, drivers license numbers, insurance companies and policy number, vehicle plate state and license numbers and make and model of each car.
Get the names, addresses, and work and home telephone numbers of all passengers and witnesses.
Record details describing the accident; how it happened, approximate speeds, the weather and road conditions, traffic signals, etc.

Filling Your Claim

Phone your insurance company or agent. Do it as soon as possible even if the accident is not your fault or you are away from home.
Ask your insurance agent how to proceed. Ask what forms are needed and the company policy about accidents, qualified repair shops and inspections.
Keep a copy of all and any repair bills.
Keep a record of your personal expenses such as medical and hospital expenses, lost wages and other costs as a result of the accident.
Keep copies of all your paper work and store it in your own file for your future reference.

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