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What
To Do In Case Of An Accident
Auto accidents happen every day. They
are unfortunate, but you must be prepared in case you are involved
in one. Your chances are nearly 1 in 10 that you or someone close
to you will involved in an accident. Be prepared. Below are steps
to take in the event you are involved in accident. Also, print out
the Accident Information Form and keep it in your glove compartment.
It includes space for you to record information regarding the accident.
Accident Information Form, click here...
1. Stop your car and assist anyone who
may be injured. Telephone the police or an ambulance if people are
injured.
2. Exchange information with the other party. Obtain as much information
as possible from the other party. (see Accident Information Form)
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a. Name of insurance
company
b. Telephone number
c. Policy number
d. Full name, address, and telephone number
e. Driver’s license number of other party
f. Make, model, license plate, and year of vehicles involved |
3. Get the names, addresses, telephone numbers
of any witnesses to the collision. (If you don’t get the information
now, it may be impossible to locate those people later.)
4. If possible, take photographs of the scene and damage to the
vehicles.
5. Write down everything that happened during the collision while
at the scene. If you are unable to do this at the scene, do it as
soon as possible thereafter. (Write down statements that other people
made. Memories soon fade you may not remember the details at a later
time.)
6. Do not discuss fault with the other party. Never accept responsibility
for the collision at the scene. There is plenty of time later to
determine who is at fault. It is not always clear who the at-fault
party is. If a person makes a claim against you, you should refer
them to your insurance carrier. Never discuss your claim with the
attorney or adjuster for the other side.
7. Telephone your insurance company and obtain an auto accident
claim number. As soon as possible following the collision, call
your insurance representative to obtain a claim number then give
this information to your attorney. Your attorney can then let the
insurance company know that they will be representing you through
this process. Some insurance companies may deny an obligation to
pay benefits if you do not notify them promptly.
8. You are not required to speak with the at-fault party’s
insurance company. Do not make any statements or agree to allow
them to take a recorded statement.
9 . Put all of the information you have gathered in a safe location
and keep the information until your case has been settled.
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