Filing a Claim After an Accident
As much as we all hope to avoid it, accidents are a regular occurrence in our world, and it is likely that most of us will be involved in one at some point, whether as a driver, a passenger, or a bystander. The best way to handle this is to be prepared ahead of time so you can take the right actions in the heat of the moment.
Safety Steps Before an Accident Occurs
All drivers should follow certain protocols so that they will be ready in the unfortunate event that an accident does occur. Here are some basic standards to follow:
- Be adequately insured
- Keep your insurance information in your car
- Always carry your driver’s license
- Always keep your phone charged and available
- Stock your car with emergency supplies such as flares
Having things like your license, phone and insurance documentation will make dealing with the police and filing a claim so much easier. Additionally, safety items such as flares or cones can literally save your life if you get in an accident on a busy and/or dark roadway. Remember, being overprepared is always better than being underprepared.
First Steps on the Scene
If an accident has already happened, here’s what you need to do first:
- Check for injuries: To start, make sure everyone involved, including yourself, is okay. If there are any significant injuries, call 911 immediately.
- Move if necessary: If your accident took place on a busy road and you can do so safely, try to move your car closer to the side of the road for your safety. If you can’t move your car, just get out and walk yourself to safety for now. If available, you could also set out some flares and cones to alert other drivers.
- Call the police: If you haven’t already called 911 for emergency assistance, you may want to contact the local police or highway patrol. They can decide whether your case is one they should come out for. If they do, be sure to record their names and badge numbers in case you need that information later.
- Document with photos: Take photos of the accident from multiple angles. Make sure you photograph all the damage that your vehicle and any other involved vehicles have sustained. If other property has been damaged, such as a nearby building or electric pole, take photos of that too.
- Talk to the other party and/or witnesses: If it is safe to do so, calmly discuss the accident with the other party as applicable. You’ll want to get their name, license number, license plate, and insurance company. If there are any other witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers as well.
- File a claim over the phone or online: Depending on your insurance company, you can file a claim online or by phone. The agent will ask you to describe the accident and provide any documentation you have. This will allow your insurance company to start their investigation.
- Call to get your car towed if necessary: If your car is undrivable, you’ll need to call a tow truck company. Your insurer may do this for you, depending on the type of coverage you have. If not, you can call your personal roadside assistance company or a local tow truck company. It’s a good idea to ask your carrier if they have any preferred collision centers for you to get towed to.
What to Expect After an Accident
Your insurer may contact you again to ask more questions. If another party was involved, you can expect an agent from their insurance company to call and interview you as well. The more responsive you are, the sooner things can be resolved -- and be aware, some carriers have time limits on claims, so don’t drag your feet.
If your car needs repairs, your insurance might include coverage for a rental for the period of time that your car is in the shop. If your insurance company deems your car a total loss, they will pay you a flat rate based on your vehicle’s current value. If not, they will cover all or part of the costs of repairing your vehicle.
It can take months for the insurance companies involved to finalize their investigations and officially assign blame for the accident. Depending on the results, you may need to pay more or less out of your own pocket, and you may find that your insurance rates get raised.
No matter who is at fault, it is important that you have insurance so you’re covered. To find the lowest rates, consider comparing car insurance quotes with us today.