Kathleens Insurance Advice

An auto accident is a traumatic event. It’s understandable that immediately following an accident you may not be thinking about your auto insurance at all. The first priority is making sure that everyone is OK, and if not, seeking immediate medical attention. While your insurance is not as important as anyone’s health, it is still a factor. If possible, keep a clear head and try to gather the information that your insurance company will require to process a claim.

1. Who was involved? You’ll want to get a host of information from the other folks involved in the accident. You’ll want a full name, address, phone number and date of birth if you can get one. You’ll also want their complete insurance information. You’ll need their insurance company name and their policy number. If more than one car was involved, be sure to get this information from all parties involved. Also make a note of everyone in each vehicle. Having a record of everyone present will help you from being a victim of insurance fraud.
2. What types of vehicles? Get the year, make and model for each vehicle that was involved. If you can, also get license plate numbers.
3. Were police officers present? If the police were called to the scene, be sure to get their name and badge information. If the officer fills out a police report, ask for the report number.
4. Were there witnesses? If anyone saw the accident happen, ask them for their information. Having a third party verify the events of the accident will help settle the claim more quickly.
5. Was an aid car called? Was anyone hurt enough to be taken to the emergency room in an ambulance or aid car? Note the suspected type of injury and the hospital where the person was taken.
6. What kind of damage was caused? Note the type of damage to each vehicle involved. Were the cars drivable? Was there property damage to signs, telephone poles or other property?
7. What is the surrounding area like? Make a note of where the accident happened and what is nearby. Note all intersections, signs, road markings, etc. Drawing a picture or taking a photo can be a helpful way to document the location of the accident.
8. Take photos if you can – even cell phone photos can be helpful.

Insurance companies want to keep you as a happy customer and will do everything in their power to process your claim as quickly as possible. You can help them with the filing process by gathering as much information possible. Keep a notepad and pen in the glove box of your car in case of emergencies. It will provide you a place to take notes in the event of an accident. You may even want to call your insurance company from the accident to let them know. Often times insurance companies can assist by setting up a shop to repair your car and helping to arrange a rental vehicle. Armed with the right information your insurance company will quickly process your claim and have you driving again in no time.