If you are involved in an automobile accident, there are certain things you can do to protect yourself and your interests. The following is a list of the top things you should do if you are in an automobile accident:

 

  • STOP

Never drive away from the scene of an accident, even a minor one.

  • PROTECT THE SCENE

You can prevent further accidents by setting up flares, or keeping your flashers on.

  • CALL THE POLICE

Even if there are no serious injuries, it is a good idea to call the police. You may need a police report to file a claim with your insurance company, even if it is just to make a claim for damage to your vehicle. 

  • MAKE AN ACCURATE RECORD

When the police arrive, make sure you tell the investigating officer(s) exactly what happened, to the best of your ability.

  • TAKE PICTURES 

 If you happen to have a camera in your vehicle, or a cell phone equipped with a camera, you should take pictures of the vehicles if there is visible damage.

  • EXCHANGE INFORMATION

Typically, the investigating police officer obtains this information. However, if the police do not respond to the accident, you should obtain the name, address and telephone number of all persons involved in the accident, drivers and passengers alike. You should also obtain information about insurance by asking to see the insurance card for all vehicles involved in the accident.

  • REPORT THE ACCIDENT 

 Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Many policies require immediate reporting and full cooperation.

  • SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION 

Often, injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents are not immediately apparent. Most of our client’s report feeling the most pain a day or two following an automobile accident. Unless you are absolutely certain you were not injured, you should seek medical attention at your local emergency room or by seeing your family physician. 

  • KEEP A FILE

 Keep all your accident-related documents and information together. This information should include a claim number, the claim’s adjuster who is handling the claim, names and phone numbers of all contacts, receipts for a rental car and other expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

 


REPORT THE ACCIDENT WITH YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY CLAIM DEPARTMENT AND OTHER PARTY INVOLVED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.