Involved in a Car Accident? Here’s What to Do

Auto accidents are such unfortunate events that usually could have been avoided. Nowadays, drivers are more distracted than ever, which leads to a wide variety of major issues. Being prepared for an accident is key for a smoother aftermath whether you are at fault or not. Proper preparation will help with your auto insurance claim process and protect you from false accusations. Here are steps in effectively managing a car accident.

Immediately After the Collision

The first thing you should do after a car accident is pull your car over to a safe, public place and try to remain calm. It is important that you stay in a well-lit area. Do what you can to avoid becoming a road hazard yourself. If your vehicle cannot be moved, move yourself and all others away from the collision. No one should stay in the vehicle unless they have injuries that need first responders to address. If you can, remain on the scene to meet with first responders and to gather important information. Use emergency flashers to alert other vehicles.

Contact Ambulance or Law Enforcement

You will need to assess all passengers for injuries, as even a minor injury may need an ambulance to obtain the proper medical assistance. Next, you should contact law enforcement and give them the location of the accident as well as any information that could help them find you quicker and easier. If the police are unable to come to the scene for any reason, you can try to go to the nearest police station to file a report as soon as possible. Documentation is very important to make a police report if another driver sues you. Be sure to get a copy of the police report so you can use it for the claims process.

Talking to the Other Driver

Be sure to use caution when speaking with the other driver. It is best to always remain calm, regardless of the situation. If road rage may have played a role in the accident, you may want to make sure someone else is present or wait for a police officer. If it is safe to speak with the other driver, you should still refrain from assigning blame. Avoid discussing any potential injuries as all of these components impact the insurance claim.

Gathering Information

It is crucial to keep documents in order and collect important information. Registration, proof of insurance, and the name and phone number of your insurance professional should be kept handy in your vehicle. If applicable, consider keeping important medical and allergy information as well as your doctor contact in your car. There will need to be an exchange of insurance and contact information between drivers, keeping in mind that what you say may be used against you later. What to collect for insurance claims:

• Name and contact information
• Insurance company and policy number
• Driver’s license and license plate number
• Type, color, and model of vehicle
• Location of accident

Be sure to get plenty of photos and videos of all damages and speak with any witnesses. Write down or record details so you do not have to try to remember them in such a stressful time. These details include everything from injuries to road and weather conditions. Insurers will ask for this information to help you with your claim.

Starting an Auto Insurance Claim

Reach out to your auto agent as soon as possible to begin the claim process. They may even be able to help set you up with other services, such as roadside assistance. Ask questions about anything you don’t understand so you can provide your insurer with the accurate information they need to file your claim. Ask about deadlines associated with NJ Auto Insurance claims and when you will hear from your agent next. Social title: What to do after an Auto Accident

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options is best for them based on their current situation and risk factors.  Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!