You’ve just been hit! Not only is being in a traffic accident a stressful experience, it’s just the time you need to stay calm and make the right decisions. Those first few moments after an accident are vital, and can make a big difference when you take the next step of filing your auto insurance claim.
- Be prepared! Make sure and check with your auto insurance agent to confirm what is and isn’t covered on your policy. It’s better to know this before you have an accident in your car. Also be sure to keep paper and pen in your glove box so you can write down any important information.
- Immediately after the accident – seek help for the injured. Call 9-111 if someone is hurt. If no one appears to be hurt, it’s still a good idea for you to ask first, and call the authorities if anything seems out of the ordinary.
- Protect your car (and yourself!) from further damage. If there are no injuries and you are able to drive your vehicle’s, state law requires that you move your vehicle off the road. Be aware of oncoming traffic at all times as other drivers might be distracted.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the accident, but don’t have a long conversation. Take notes on your own of what happened, and if you have any other passengers with you – have them take notes as well. The sooner you take notes, the more details you will remember
- If an officer comes to the scene, be sure and ask them if you can have a copy of the accident report. Answer any questions they might have and be polite and cooperative.
- As soon as you can after the accident – call your agent. We recommend calling your insurance agent first to get your claim filed. If you have any questions about the process – that’s what your agent is there for, don’t hesitate to ask. Even if you are out of town or away from home, make the call as soon as possible.
Auto accidents, even the smallest ones, can cause both physical and mental damage – and we are here to help. If you ever need more tips on dealing with these or any other insurance claim questions, give us a call.