No one wants to be in a car accident. Whether or not you’ve ever experienced the horror of a car crash, this is an unpleasant topic to read about. While no information will protect you from accidents totally, it is possible to be prepared in case tragedy strikes. Discover how you can be ready in case worse comes to worst.
There are numerous articles on the web about car accidents, but most of them focus on checking everyone for injuries, that sort of thing. And rightly so, since the primary concern is always the welfare of all the parties involved. However, this article aims to highlight the steps you can take to help with your insurance claim processes.
As a trusted insurance agency, Patriot Insurance strives to educate the public on car accident preparedness. The best way to prepare yourself for the flood of emotions and chaos of a crash is by equipping yourself with all the relevant information you can find. We came up with this list of measures to take immediately after a car accident to help you out. We recommend printing a copy and carrying it with you in your car always or bookmarking this article on your phone.
Let’s dive right into it.
1. Call the Police
This is the first step you need to take. However minor the accident may seem, there needs to be an accident report for legal reasons.
2. Call Your Agent
Immediately after informing the authorities, get on the phone with your insurance agency. Your agent will advise and guide you through all the steps you need to follow.
3. Document the Accident
This is arguably the most critical step for your insurance claim. However, in the heat of the moment, it could end up slipping your mind completely. Especially considering the sheer volume of information you need to record. Should you take down the license plate number or the vehicle identification number? Or both? Don’ stress, we made a list:
- Car Accident Form: This is a convenient way to collect information at the scene of the crash. Each state its own, but you can find one at your local police station or DMV. It would help if you had it on you always.
- Information About the Driver: This includes the driver’s name, address, phone number, and other contact information.
- Information About the Other Driver’s Insurance Company: This means the basic information you can find on their proof of insurance cards, such as their insurance company name and policy number.
Information About the other Car
Note or take photos of the vehicle to record:
- Description, model, make, year
- License plate number
- Register information
Information About the Collision
- Date and time and address of the collision
- The road you are on and the nearest cross street
- The direction you were traveling in
- The other car’s direction
- Photograph the scene adequately
- You might not be clear on all the details immediately after such a shocking event. But it’s important to write down or make a voice recording of your account as soon as you are calm enough.
- The driving conditions like the weather, visibility
- The name, badge number, and contact information of the police officers who come to the scene
- Witness names and contacts
4. Don’t Admit Blame
It’s best to avoid discussing what has happened and never admit responsibility under any circumstances.
5. Assist the Police With the Accident Report
Answer any questions honestly, but again, don’t admit any fault.
Patriot Insurance is ready to help you file your insurance claim in case of a car accident. We are located in Blaine, MN, and we serve the twin cities and St. Paul areas. Contact us now to take the first step towards accident readiness.
