If you find yourself involved in an accident here’s what you need to do before you call your insurance company…
1. Call the police (911 in most areas). Report any injuries.
2. Write down the other car’s make, model, and plate number. Get the driver’s name, address, and license number…get the owners name, too. Most states require drivers to have an insurance identification card in the vehicle and it will provide most of this information.
3. Write down the names and addresses of all passengers and witnesses.
4. Get the officer’s name and badge number. Ask how you can obtain a copy of the police report for your insurance claim.
5. Do not admit to guilt, do not accept money from the other driver, and do not agree to forget about a minor accident.
6. Write down what happened: include the time of day, weather conditions, hazards, road conditions, and driving speed. Make a note of any prior damage on other cars.
Once you collect this information, contact your auto insurance company as soon as possible. Many insurance companies have 24-hour claims service by phone. So you can call your insurer right from the scene. Your insurance ID card should provide the number.