Accidents Happen-Get the Most From Your Car Insuance Claim

Accidents Happen: Get the Most from Your Car Insurance Claim

Unfortunately, accidents happen. In fact, they can happen so quickly and leave you so flustered that you may not know what to do first. The tips below will help you get all the information you need for your auto insurance company if you're involved in an auto accident.

An accident can happen in the blink of an eye. Make sure you get all the car insurance coverage you're entitled to (either from your company or the other driver's insurance company) by getting all the information you'll need (it's a good idea to keep a small notebook and pen in your glove box). Be sure to review this list of Dos and Don'ts before an accident happens so you'll be better prepared to deal with it.

DO:

• Stop your car in a safe and visible place, if at all possible. If your car cannot be moved, turn on your hazard lights. Be sure to turn off your ignition and use caution when exiting your car.
• Determine if anyone is injured. Remember, do not move an injured person.
• Call 911 immediately. Report the accident and any injuries.
• If another vehicle is involved, get the car's year, make, model and license plate number.
• Get the driver's name, address and license number, and the name of his or her insurance company.
• If the other driver does not own the car, get the name of the car's owner. Remember to write down names, addresses and phone numbers of other passengers or witnesses.
• Write down the names and badge numbers of police and emergency personnel who respond to the accident. Ask an officer how to obtain a copy of the police report for your insurance claim.
• Ask that a breath test be administered if you suspect the other driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Cooperate with the police.
• Report the accident to your insurance agent or company as soon as possible.
• Write an account of what happened: time of day, weather, hazards, road conditions and driving speed. Draw a picture of the site, showing stop signs, signal lights, etc. Try to note any damage already on other cars involved. This information will probably be needed for the accident report.

DO NOT:

• Admit fault for the accident in any way.
• You may be required to show proof of insurance, but DO NOT reveal how much coverage you have.
• Accept any money the other driver may offer. By accepting money, you may give up your right to file a claim against the other driver, even if the damage turns out to be more extensive than you first thought.
• Agree to forget about a minor accident. You may find out later that there was hidden damage or injuries. The other person may even file a lawsuit against you.

Taking some time to get all the information you need will help you more effectively settle you car insurance claim in the event of an accident.