What to do after a car accident
What to do after a car accident
When you're involved in an automobile accident, there are a few things you should do to make sure everyone is safe, follow the law, and begin the insurance claim process.
The following stages, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III), may assist you in making essential decisions after an automobile accident, whether you were at fault or not.
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1. Check yourself for injuries
If you're hurt, dial 911 or have someone else dial 911 for you. If you've been gravely injured, try not to move and wait for help.
2.Check on the well-being of your passengers
Check on the other passengers in your automobile if you're not too hurt to move. If anyone is hurt, contact 911 or ask a bystander to call for assistance.
3.Get to safety
Move to the side of the road or a sidewalk if possible. Pull your automobile to the side of the road if it is safe to drive and is causing a hazard where it is. Otherwise, leave it alone and make your way to safety.
4.Call 911
Calling the police, whether it's a tiny fender-bender or a large collision, is critical — and in certain jurisdictions, it's a legal requirement. The cops on the site will fill out an accident report and photograph the situation. According to the III, if the police cannot get to the accident scene, you can proceed to the nearest police station and fill out a report yourself. When you make a claim with your insurance company, they may request a copy of the police report to aid in the claims process.
5.Wait for help
To alert other drivers to slow down, turn off your engine, turn on your hazard lights, and use the road flares in your emergency car kit.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau also advises against bandit tow trucks. These are tow truck drivers who pull over and give assistance without being asked. It could be a ruse. They've been known to persuade victims to let them tow their vehicles to shady facilities where the vehicle is held hostage for an extortionate fee.
6.Exchange information
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other motorist after ensuring that you and any passengers are unharmed. The following is the most crucial information that drivers should exchange after an accident, according to the III:
Name and contact details in full
Company name and policy number
Number of licence plate and driver's licence
Vehicle type, colour, and model
The accident's location
When reviewing the facts with the other motorist, the III advises against arguing fault. When you file an insurance claim, the adjuster will determine who is at fault based on an inspection of the damaged vehicles/property, information provided by you and the other parties involved in the accident, and any supporting documentation, such as the police report or photographs taken at the scene.
7.Document the accident
The III suggests that you take the following precautions to help safeguard yourself:
Recognize the officers.
Obtain the names and badge numbers of all responding officers once they arrive.
Obtain a copy.
Inquire with the policemen present about getting a copy of the accident report. When you submit an automobile insurance claim, your insurer may request a copy of the report.
Take photographs.
Take numerous shots of your vehicle from various angles to show the extent of the damage to both vehicles. It might also be a good idea to photograph the licence plate of the other vehicle. During the claims process, you may be allowed to share images with your insurer to help support your claim.
8.Notify your insurer and start the claims process
While you're on the scene, phone your insurance provider or report your claim using your insurer's mobile app, if one exists. That way, they'll be able to inform you exactly what they'll need to process your claim and what to expect during the process. Your insurer can arrange for your vehicle to be transported directly to a certified body shop if it is damaged.
Even the most experienced driver can become stressed after an accident, but following these measures will help you avoid unneeded worry. That way, you can concentrate on dealing with your insurance provider to get your car fixed as quickly as possible.
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