Accident Procedure List
Things you should know if you are involved in an accident
What to do if your involved in an accident
Call the Police!!
No matter how “nice” or “scared” the other person is, never “just exchange information.” This could backfire!
Do not move the vehicles involved.
The Police Officer may not be able to document fault if the vehicles are moved before he gets there.
If you are injured, don’t refuse medical attention.
Appropriate medical care is needed if you have suffered an injury.
If a tow truck is needed…
Get the name and address of the towing company and tell them where to tow your vehicle. Your best choice is an auto body shop. This choice will prevent you from having to tow your vehicle again at a later date.
Ask the Police Officer in charge for a preliminary accident report before you leave the scene.
Even if not complete, it contains valuable information that can be used by you or the auto body shop of your choice to assist you with the insurance claim. If you are unable to obtain a copy at the scene, the Police Department will usually have one available within a few days.
Write a complete description of the accident as soon as possible.
Write a complete detailed description of the accident before you forget any details of it.
You are not required to:
- Give a signed statement to the claims adjuster representing the other driver’s insurance company.
- Obtain more than one estimate.
- Take your car to a shop specified by your insurance agent or to any drive-in claims center for inspection.
- Sign any insurance company release until every repair has been completed to your satisfaction.
REMEMBER: You deserve the best. Don’t settle for less!
If your vehicle is damaged in an accident you have the right to:
- Choose your own body shop.
- Have your car towed to the shop of your choice. Don’t let your insurance company specify a shop so they can receive a discount on your repairs. Call your insurance company and advise them of your vehicle’s location. Let your body shop go over the damage with your insurance company representative.
- Have your car restored to pre-accident condition.
- Your car should look and perform the way it did before the accident. Even minor cosmetic damage should also be repaired at this time. Every little nick or chip can lead to rust damage later and will deduct from the value of your car.
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