Car accidents are frustrating and confusing experiences. It is difficult to remain calm and focused immediately after a crash. However, allowing yourself to panic and not make wise decisions can have a negative effect on your insurance claim. Here are a few steps you should always take after a car accident.
1.) Do not admit fault. In some accidents, it is difficult to determine who is at fault right away. No matter what, never admit to being at fault in the accident. This is simply a way to protect yourself in case your memory or understanding of the accident is wrong. You never want to admit fault in case you truly are not responsible. Let the police and insurance companies sort out who was responsible. They know all the laws and have a clearer understanding of what happened than you do in a confused state after an accident.
2.) Always call the police. Some accidents may seem like they do not require police assistance, but you always want to keep your bases covered. If the accident is severe, you will definitely want to call 911. The police can write a report and issue a ticket. This will come in handy when working with insurance companies to determine who is at fault. Having the authorities at the scene of the accident will help in abating tempers and preventing road rage.
3.) Always get proper information. You can never have too much information on the other driver. Copy everything from his or her driver’s license, including the state, the driver’s address, and his/her license number. Make sure to get a phone number and all of his or her insurance information. You will want to copy all the data from the other driver’s insurance card. Do not forget to jot down information about the other car, including the make, model and license plate number.
4.) Contact your insurance company. Call your insurance company and fill them in. However, be careful that you do not give too much information or admit to fault right away. Make sure you understand every detail of your insurance policy. Taking the extra time to learn the intricacies of your policy will ensure you do not sign any documents that could jeopardize your compensation. If you have comprehensive and collision insurance, your insurance company must pay for the repairs of your car. If the other driver is at fault, his or her insurance company will have to cover the costs.
