5 Key Things To Do After a Car Accident
Getting into a car accident is something you never want to experience, but if you’re like most drivers, it will happen eventually. Here are five important things to do after an accident.
- Call the Police
Whether it’s a small fender bender or a major collision, call the police while you’re at the scene. They’ll be able to help you get information from the other drivers involved and keep things from escalating if emotions run high. They’ll also document what happened, collect statements from witnesses and file a formal report that you can use when filing a claim with your insurance company.
- Get Information From the Drivers Involved
Take the time to get the right information from the other drivers. This includes the following:
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance information
- Make, model, and color of the other car(s) involved
- Proof of registration
Take pictures of those documents and send them to your insurance agent as part of the claim.
- Take Pictures of the Damage
Before leaving the scene, take pictures of as much of the damage as you can. Snap a few shots of the dents, scrapes and dings done to your car as well as any damage done to other vehicles.
- Never Admit Fault
An apology or an outright admission of fault puts the full burden of the accident on your shoulders and could end up costing you lots of money. Hold off on that apology and never admit that your actions caused the accident. Remember, you have no idea what the other driver was doing behind the wheel. The accident could partially be his or her fault. If it is, his or her insurance company may have to pay for at least some of the repairs to your vehicle.
- Notify Your Insurance Agent
Contact your insurance agent as soon as you can and start the claim. You may also want to speak with a car accident lawyer Macomb County before the claim gets settled. They’ll be able to help you if you’re unhappy with the results of your insurance company’s payout or need to contest the settlement from the other driver’s insurance company.
Getting into a car accident can be stressful. By following these five steps, you’ll be ready to file a claim as soon as possible so your life can get back to normal.
