By Brandon Cervenka
Regardless of what you call them, being injured or having your vehicle damaged in a collision is simply no fun. While no one likes to think about being in a car accident, statistically 77% of Americans will be in one during their lifetime. The financial impacts can be profound. So, educate yourself with these steps to best protect yourself and your family following an automobile incident.
Stay Safe and Secure the Scene
First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt, if traffic is blocked, or if there is significant damage. Turn on your hazard lights and, if it is safe and legal to do so, move vehicles out of traffic to reduce the risk of a secondary crash. Remain at the scene until law enforcement tells you that you can leave.
Gather Details for Your Insurance
Once everyone is safe, exchange names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance company and policy numbers with all drivers involved. Avoid discussing fault; simply stick to facts when you speak with the other driver or witnesses. Use your phone to take clear photos of all vehicles, the wider crash scene, traffic signs, road conditions, and any visible injuries, and jot down the date, time, weather, and a brief description of what happened while it is still fresh.
Get and Use the Police Report
If officers respond, ask how and when a formal police report will be available and write down the report number if it is provided at the scene. Later, contact the appropriate agency (such as city police or highway patrol) or visit their website to request a copy, and check it for accuracy in details like location, vehicles involved, and insurance information. Share the report number and a copy with your insurance company, and keep one with your own accident file in case there are questions about fault or injuries down the road.
Call Your Insurer the Right Way
Contact your auto insurance agent as soon as possible, ideally from the scene once you are safe and calm. Have key details ready: location, time, other drivers’ insurance information, and a basic description of the damage and injuries. When you speak to the representative, answer questions honestly but briefly.
Protect Yourself During the Claims Process
If the other driver’s insurer calls, you are not required in most situations to give a recorded statement right away; you can politely decline or say you will call back after reviewing the situation. Keep a written log of every conversation with any insurance company, including dates, times, names, claim numbers, and what was discussed. Save all accident-related documents in one place: photos, repair estimates, towing and rental receipts, medical bills, and any letters or emails from insurers.
Questions about auto insurance or other coverages? Contact Brandon Cervenka Insurance Agency—local, friendly, and here for your family.
