Save more, spend less and avoid rip-offs
I could not stress enough to follow my recommendations and avoid future headaches. All of these recommendations are based on my prior experience as a former claims adjuster that I once was. Please keep in mind there are many people, more than ever before, driving in our State without sufficient or without any insurance coverage. Also, the following information is not intended to be used as a legal advice. I am not an attorney.
1. Keep a Kit
Carry a cell phone, as well as pen and paper for taking notes, a disposable camera with build-in flash to take photos of the vehicles at the scene, and a card with information about medical allergies or conditions that may require special attention if there are serious injuries. Do not forget a first aid kit and a small fire extinguisher.
2. Keep Safety First
Move cars to the side of the road and out of the way of oncoming traffic if there are no serious injuries. (Hopefully, before moving vehicles, you have taken photos of any vehicle(s) involved in the loss. If a car cannot be moved, drivers and passengers should remain in the cars with seatbelts fastened for everyone's safety until help arrives. Make sure to turn on hazard lights and set out cones, flares or warning triangles if possible.
3. Call the authorities
Even if it's a minor accident, you want the police there and you want a report on file. YOU MUST WAIT FOR THE CORRESPONDING POLICE DEPARTMENT. If the accident occurred while on private property, take photos, search for non bias witnesses and do not make any arrangements with any party involved of any kind. Also, contact me at my office and let me assist and orient you. If the accident occurs after business hours contact your insurance carrier for assistance.
4. Exchange Information
(You must) Get the other driver's name, address, phone number, insurance company, policy number, driver license number and license plate number. If the driver's name is different from the name of the insured, establish what the relationship is and take down the name and address for each individual. Also make a written description of each car, including year, make, model and color — and the exact location of the collision and how it happened. Finally, be polite but don't tell the other driver(s) or the police that the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.
5. Photograph and Document the Accident
Document damage to all vehicles. Keep in mind that you want your photos to show the overall context of the accident so that you can make your case to a claims adjuster. If there were witnesses, try to get their contact information; they may be able to help you if the other drivers dispute your version of what happened. When taking photos, try to use a disposable camera with built in flash. Photos taken with your cell phone might not be accepted in a Court of Law and/or by insurance companies as proof of loss since digital photos can be easy manipulated.
6. File An Accident Report
If law enforcement officers don't respond because there are no injuries; file a state vehicle accident report anyway. Do it as soon as possible. (At list within 24 hours from the time of the accident). These forms are available at police stations and often on your state's Department of Motor Vehicles Web site. A police report often helps insurance companies speed up the claims process.
7. Know What Your Insurance Covers
The whole insurance process will be easier following your accident if you know the details of your coverage. For example, don't wait until after an accident to find out that your policy doesn't automatically cover costs for towing or a replacement rental car. DO NOT PROVIDE INSURANCE COVERAGE INFORMATION TO NO ONE.
Please print out this page and keep it in your glove compartment
