Fraud Tip of the Day - June 8
What to do when you have a car accident
Do you know what to do if you've been in a car accident? You may think you do, but a lot of things,
important things, can be forgotten in the heat of the moment. A car accident can be a nerve-racking
experience. Immediately following the crash, you may be flustered, shaking, and possibly injured.
It's important that you act quickly, for both safety and insurance reasons. This Tip of the Day is
devoted to a driver's worst nightmare. Your first step is to be prepared.
How to prepare for a car accident
You should read through the materials sent you by your insurance agent. They'll send you information
you can and should keep in your car at all times. This information will probably include blank forms
for you to fill in if you're in an accident. These forms can help you gather all the details your
insurance provider will need later. It's a lot harder to remember things later if you don't write
them down on the scene of the accident. I also keep a small notebook and pen in my car. There's no
telling how much you'll need to write down. I also keep a disposable camera in my glove box to record
the scene of the accident. They're cheap and the pictures you take may include details you didn't
think were important enough to write down.
Safety First
The most important thing to do after an accident is to stop your car if it isn't already and check to
see if anyone's been injured. If necessary, call 911 for help. If you can, make sure your car is on
the side of the road and keep as far from moving vehicles as possible. The side of the road can be a
dangerous place.
Remain on the Scene
Whatever you do, do not leave the scene of a car accident until a police report has been filed. Once
a police officer arrives, make sure you get their name and then tell them your version of what happened.
Exchange Information
You should give the other parties involved in the accident you name, address, driver's license number,
and insurance information and you should collect the same from them, but don't share coverage information
with anyone.
Do Not Accept Responsibility
Whatever you do, do not accept responsibility for the accident. This will be determined at a later date.
Get as much information as possible
Before you leave the scene of the accident, get out those blank forms, a pen, notebook and camera and record as much information as you can. Important details can include:
- The time, date and location of the accident.
- Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of registered owners, injured people, occupants of other vehicles, and witnesses.
- Descriptions and license numbers of the cars involved in the accident.
Report the Accident to your Insurance Company
Make sure you report the accident to your insurance company immediately no matter how minor you think the accident was.
