If you've ever been in a car accident you know the feelings of shock, fear, and confusion as you try to sort out the events and make sure everyone involved is okay. We think it's a good idea to have a list of things to do that you can default to during the intense period of stress following an accident.
1. Move your car and/or yourself to a safer area: things will only compound if the vehicles in the accident begin to block traffic. Other drivers who are not paying close attention could end up in their own accidents. If your car isn't able to be moved, the best thing to do is get yourself and anyone else to an area a safe distance away from the road.
2. Turn off your car: make sure that you bring your vehicle to a complete stop and put it in park. It's important that unattended cars don't become mvoing hazards. If the damage has lead to any leaking fluids turning off your car can slow this down.
3. Check the surrounding area and other parties involved: if you are able to move safely, check on the passengers in your car first. Then, get out and check on the driver/passengers of any other vehicles involved. It's important to make sure no pedestrians or bystanders were harmed in the accident as well.
4. Call the authorities: it's best to call 911 to report the accident. That way the dispatcher can send police officers to the scene and an ambulance if needed at the same time.
5. Exchange information: like it or not, you and a stranger will not be connected by this event. Give them your contact and insurance information to make sure the claims process can go smoothly. It's a good idea to get a license plate number for further identification.
6. Take photos: if you are unharmed and it is safe to do so, take some photos with your smartphone or tablet. This can help an insurance adjuster determine exactly what happened and can provide details in addition to the police report.
7. File a claim: once you have been given clearance by the officers to go on your way, call your insurance agency as soon as possible to get your claim started. Your accountant manager can advise you of the claims process and give you advice on how to move forward.
Ieuter Insurance Group has over 75 years of helping our insureds to handle bad situations. While we can't always prevent accidents from happening, we are here to support you! Please call our office for more information.