Accidents, while unfortunate, are a fact of life. This is especially true if you drive a car. In most states, you are required to carry some form of automobile insurance if you plan to own a car (and drive it). While most individuals do not want to file an insurance claim, it is important to know what you need to do if an unexpected accident occurs.
Immediately after the accident
If you are able, pull your car safely to the shoulder of the road and call 911 for medical services as well as the police. If there are injuries, wait for emergency services unless there is a life threatening situation. Take careful notes of the details of accident including the conditions of the accident site and surrounding area, names of individuals involved, license numbers, insurance information and the make and model of all vehicles involved.
When the police arrive, get the name and badge number of the officers on the scene as well as any medical personnel dispatched to the scene. And, if there are witnesses try to get their information as well. It is important to note that the police officers will also obtain this information which will be available in the police report.
Call the insurance company
As soon as you are able after the accident, call your insurance company. They will provide you important information regarding how you should proceed with the claim process. Keep a careful record of all expenses incurred as a result of the accident. This should include the police report, repair bills, car rentals, medical expenses, lost wages and even home health care if needed. Be sure to keep copies of all bills for your personal records.
Important details that you will need to provide your insurance company include:
- Your full name
- Your policy number
- The start and end date of your policy
- Date and time of accident
- All information you collected at the scene about drivers, passengers, witnesses and vehicles involved
Knowing that you do not make accident claims every day, a trustworthy insurance provider should be able to walk you through the entire process and ensure that all details are taken care of. If you have questions about your car accident claim, contact Allstate Insurance Agent, Melissa Baxter (Zeigler) Penzato.
