After an Auto Accident
Each year more than 21 million motor vehicle accidents
occur on our nation's roadways according to the National Safety
Council. Therefore, the odds of being in at least one
accident in your lifetime is extremely high. This section of
our web site contains helpful tips so you know what to do if
you
are involved in one of these unfortunate incidents.
Exchange Information With The Other Driver
Write down driver's license number, license plate number, and
state. Get the insurance company name and policy number, plus
make, model, year and description of vehicle. Lastly, record
the name, address and telephone numbers of the driver.
Write down the name and address of all passengers,
injured persons or anyone with property damage. Get the names
and contact information from at least two witnesses if possible.
This is very important when the fault of an accident
is questionable.
Diagram The Accident Before Leaving The Scene
Make sure you record important accident details
such as the date, time, location, and weather and road conditions
(wet, icy, dry).
Stop!
Do Not Leave The Scene
Call the police immediately to report any accident,
no matter how small, which results in personal injury or vehicle
damage. Notify the police as to any medical assistance that may
be needed or any vehicle that is not drivable.
Warn other motorists
by turning on your vehicle's flashers and setting up flares
or other reflective devices starting 50
feet behind your vehicle. Signal for assistance by tying a
handkerchief or anything white to the vehicle's antenna.
- Do not accept responsibility or otherwise
discuss the accident with anyone except police authorities
and your independent insurance
agent.
- Do not accept any monetary settlement at the accident scene.
- Remain calm and courteous.
- Show position of all vehicles before and after the accident-plus
location of signs, streets and medians.
- Note any apparent damage to not only your vehicle,
but all vehicles involved in the accident.
- Write down any details you feel are important.
A Final Note...
After you have taken care of everything at the scene of the
accident, immediately notify your independent insurance agent.
Be sure to save copies of all documents relating to the incident.
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