AUTO INSURANCE ARTICLE
Step by Step Guide to Accident & Auto Insurance Claims
By: coppeneurNo one ever hopes to be involved in an auto accident. But for such a life-threatening possibility, preparing for the unexpected and the unhoped for is your best bet to manage it well if it comes. And one aspect would be muscling-up your knowledge on how to file auto insurance claims. You will be thanking yourself for the knowledge you have on making auto insurance claims in advance.
These bits of information will provide you a taste of a smoother process in an already rough situation. Knowing exactly what to do when you figure in an auto accident will provide you the presence of mind when you need it most, and hopefully get you back on the road faster.
Tip 1: Check if anyone’s injured. Immediately call medical help to the scene in case anyone is injured, complains of pain or is immobile. Don’t underestimate any injury. Sometimes those that appear minor are actually more serious than they appear..
Tip 2: Don’t panic. Try to remain calm. If you may, closing your eyes and resting your shoulders for at least one minute is helpful.
Tip 3: Remain neutral. Don’t admit fault to anyone.
Tip 4: Call the police and never move or agree to anything until they arrive. Police involvement helps to determine who’s at fault.
Tip 5: Like above, allow only medical professionals and/or law enforcement officials to be involved with the accident scene.
Tip 6: You only need to discuss the accident with the police and your auto insurance company. During the claims process, should another party to the accident or another auto insurance company gets in touch with you, refrain from discussing the accident with them, and do not at any chance, agree to a recorded statement from you. Refer all queries to your claims representative.
Tip 7: Gather as much information from everyone involved in the accident through the police authorities. Obtain names, addresses, phone numbers, and auto insurance information from all parties involved. And be sure to get contact information from any witnesses to the accident. Have a ready pen and paper in your compartment.
Tip 8: As it is necessary to document all possible info you might need, taking pictures on vehicle damage, the intersection where the accident occurred, skid marks, and any other features of the accident scene is a plus for your claims papers. You may store a disposable camera in your glove compartment, or have a camera-capable mobile phone which can also do the job.
Tip 9: Report the accident immediately to your auto insurance provider. Most of these providers have hotline numbers you can reach everyday, round the clock.
Tip 10: Document your own recollection of the accident by writing it down, before your memory leaves some gaps. Be as detailed as you can.
You may print out this step by step guide as well and store it in your glove compartment. It will be handy if and when you need it.
Related Links:
Auto Insurance Quotes