I Just Had an Accident! Now What?

Driving is presumably the most dangerous thing most of us will ever do. Even though, we strive to do so responsively and defensively, there’s still a chance you’ll be involved in a traffic accident. So what do you do in case of such event?

Call 911 if there are injuries. Call the police, depending on the severity and location, police authorities may not come to every accident scene. However, you should attempt to notify the police. Be aware that most policies require notification of police within a specified time period if the accident is a hit and run. Obtain name, addresses, telephone numbers, and driver’s license numbers from all drivers. Make sure to get license plate(s) and vehicle identification numbers and ask to see driver’s license(s) and vehicle registration(s) to verify the information. Obtain contact information of other passengers and/ or any witnesses. Do not argue with other drivers and passengers, but rather save your story for the police and your insurance company. Do not sign any statements regarding fault or promises to pay for the damage. If the other driver(s) offers to pay for your deductible, do not sign anything releasing the other party from further responsibility. If you have a camera or a cell phone, take photographs of the damage, the position of the cars, and the accident scene. If the owner of the damaged property/vehicle is absent, leave a note with the names and addresses of the owners and drivers of the involved car. Notify your insurance agent and/or your insurance company immediately. If anyone is injured or the vehicle damage exceeds $750.00, report the accident to the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. Failure to do so may result in the suspension of your driver’s license.

After you have filed the claim with your insurance company, they will contact you for any additional information, such as a detailed account of the facts, or a written/recorded statement. As part of the investigation, other drivers and witnesses may be contacted. If you have medical payments or an uninsured motorist claim, you must provide documentation of the injuries. Sometimes, the insurance company can take up to 15 days to contact the insured. However, if they are not responsive, or you believe there is an unreasonable delay in settling your claim, contact the Department of Insurance.

If you were in an accident, a qualified insurance adjuster or appraiser usually inspects the vehicle damage. An estimate is written based on the initial inspection. If further damage is found, the shop will contact the insurer to get the additional cost of repairs approved. An adjuster may be sent to re-inspect the additional damages. If there are minor damages, the company may instead ask you to submit competitive repair estimates. It is your responsibility to sign and authorize the shop to repair your vehicle once you are satisfied with the final estimate and repair facility. Under a Standard Auto Policy, the company will pay on a Physical Damage Claim, the lesser amount necessary for the repair or the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle. Review your policy to be certain of what’s covered.