After a car accident, your immediate reaction might be to seek assistance. But, are you prepared for the subsequent steps? Acting promptly and wisely can ensure the safety of everyone involved and make the insurance claim process smoother.
PRIORITIZE SAFETY
- Think about relocating your car to the road’s shoulder or a safe spot to avoid additional harm.
- Stand at a safe distance from oncoming traffic, and if vehicles are severely compromised, stay away from potential hazards like fires or explosions.
- Turn on your vehicle’s hazard lights and promptly use safety flares or markers to notify other drivers.
- If you can’t call the police, ensure someone else has.
- In the event of injuries, summon medical help and wait. Only offer first aid if you’re trained to do so.
STAY COLLECTED
- Keep calm. Prioritize safety and data collection. If you’re driving a company car, notify the company as soon as you can.
- While it’s essential to be polite, avoid admitting fault or apologizing. When discussing the accident, it’s ideal to speak only with the police.
- Stay away from confrontations. It’s advisable to discuss the accident’s details in the presence of law enforcement.
COLLECT DETAILS
- If you can, get the contact details of the attending officer, including their name, department, badge number, and the incident’s report number.
- Politely ask for contact details from other drivers involved, noting their name, contact number, and vehicle’s registration number. If it’s a company vehicle, jot down the employer’s details.
- Share only necessary personal details with others; typically, your name, contact number, and insurance provider. Be cautious as some might exploit car accidents to gather personal data for fraudulent activities.
- Collect information from passengers or witnesses and request they stay until the police arrive. They might have valuable insights or details about the accident.
OBSERVE THE SCENE
- Absorb your environment and document essential details. If feasible, snap a few photographs to corroborate your notes. Keeping a copy of this Cincinnati Insurance auto report guide in your car can be handy for post-accident documentation.
- Document any factors that might have contributed to the accident, such as bad weather, unsafe road conditions, or malfunctioning traffic signals.
- Record any noticeable injuries or damages to people, vehicles, or property.
- Documenting specifics promptly can be beneficial for potential investigations and offering your insurance agent a comprehensive overview.
DISCLAIMER: This safety and loss prevention guide is only suggestive. The writer is not accountable for the execution or oversight of safety precautions. This article might not cover all risks. Consult your local Bolder Insurance advisor for tailored insurance guidance and detailed safety information. Neither The Cincinnati Insurance Company nor any associated entities provide legal counsel. For specific guidance, please consult your lawyer.