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Steps to Take After a Car Accident
If you have been in a car accident, it’s crucial to ensure everyone’s safety and begin the insurance claim process correctly. To protect yourself and your finances, follow these seven steps after a car accident.
1. Get to Safety
Your safety and that of your passengers is paramount. Cars can be replaced. If you’re still in the roadway, move yourself and your car (if it’s driveable) out of the path of oncoming traffic. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is hurt. If someone is seriously injured, it’s best not to move them.
Accidents on back roads or in the dark can be especially dangerous. Turn on your hazard lights to increase visibility and help other cars avoid the accident site. Remain in your car until help arrives.
2. Call the Police
Even after a minor accident, you should call the police. They may not come if nobody is injured, but it’s still a good idea to call, especially if you believe you weren’t at fault. A police report can support your claim that you didn’t cause the accident when you file an insurance claim.
Having a police officer on the scene can also help keep emotions in check, preventing drivers from getting too heated.
3. Take Photos
Once everyone is safe and the police have been called, start taking photos of your car’s damage and any other vehicles involved. If it’s safe, also take photos of the surrounding area: street signs, obstacles, road conditions, etc.
Your auto insurance company will need these photos to investigate and determine how much to compensate you for the damage.
4. Exchange Information With the Other Driver
If the police are on the scene, they may handle the information exchange for you. If not, you should exchange the following information with the other driver:
- Full name and contact information of the driver and the insured person (if different)
- Insurance company name and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Make, color, and model of the vehicle
Avoid discussing who was at fault. It’s up to the insurers to assign blame, and even a casual “I’m sorry” could be used to assign fault and deny compensation.
5. Call Your Insurance Company
While you don’t need to call your insurance company from the scene, don’t wait too long. Delaying can cause you to forget important details. The time frame for filing a claim varies by insurance company and state, but it’s usually best to file as soon as possible to expedite compensation for medical bills or car damage.
6. You May Need to Notify the DMV
Whether you need to contact your state’s department of motor vehicles about a car accident depends on the state and the extent of the damage or injuries. For example, Wisconsin requires reporting if there’s $1,000 or more in damage or if someone is injured. In Oregon, you need to report within 72 hours if there’s over $2,500 in damage or if someone is injured.
7. Wait—and Take Guidance From Your Insurer
After filing a claim, wait for guidance from your insurance company. They may send an inspector to examine the vehicle and provide a repair estimate. Do not approve repairs until you’ve discussed costs with your insurer to ensure they cover the damages.
If your car is totaled and you have comprehensive or collision coverage, your insurer will likely pay for the car’s value minus the deductible. This process can take a few days to months, depending on how quickly fault is determined.
Contact O1ne Mortgage for Your Mortgage Needs
At O1ne Mortgage, we are here to assist you with all your mortgage needs. Call us at 213-732-3074 for expert guidance and support. We are committed to providing you with the best service possible.
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