If You've Had an Accident

Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues are handled with as little stress as possible.

• First of all - stay calm.
• If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical help.
• Make sure you call the police.
• Don't publicly make any statements where you either accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
• Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record. Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
• In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and that they get the same information from you.
• Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses as well.
• Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of what could have caused the accident.
• Write down pertinent details such as where the accident took place, what the weather was like, etc.
• If you believe your vehicle is not drivable, have the vehicle towed to your choice of collision repair shops.
• Once the information's exchanged, report the accident to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your fault.
• Make sure you understand how you're covered, and ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your coverage and payments.
• Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign anything if you don't understand it. (continued)
• When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right to choose the shop to do your repairs.
• An insurance company has the right to inspect your vehicle, but it is not required to do so.
• And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident, but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident once in a while - it's just something that happens.

Remember - Drive Safely!