7 Tips You Need to Know After an Auto Accident

Now what do you do? Here are 7 things you can do to help yourself and your insurance company.

1. Check yourself and the other drivers to see if there is any immediate need for medical attention.
2. Try to remove the involved vehicles out of the direct line of traffic for your own safety as well as to avoid causing additional accidents.
3. ALWAYS alert the local police to come visit the accident site. The police will gather all of the names and insurance information of all the parties involved for future investigation. The police generally do not determine who is at fault in an auto accident, but they do have a section on the police report where they indicate factors that may have contributed to the accident.
4. Even if you believe that the accident was entirely your fault, do not admit the fault. Leave this question up to your insurance company claims representative. They are the professional who does this on a daily basis and you may also limit their ability to defend you in this claim.
5. If your vehicle needs to be towed, you can arrange this through the police. They have a list of local towing services who will come get you. It may cost a bit more if you have to tow your vehicle beyond a normal range. They may be able to tow your vehicle to their lot and then you can make separate arrangements with your preferred body shop.
6. If the accident was obviously not your fault, do not alert your insurance company but instead make sure the claim is turned in to the appropriate insurance company. If the accident is your fault or you are unsure, contact your insurance company and report the claim. If possible, have details on all the parties involved for the claims representative.
7. When the adjuster contacts you, get their name, phone number, address and above all, get the claim number. Arrange as soon as possible for them to see your vehicle and let them know where you wish to have it repaired, and if you may be in need of a replacement vehicle.