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A car crash is something no one expects. It can leave you shaken, confused, and unsure of what to do next. You may wonder who to contact, what to say, or how to handle your insurance. The good news is that there’s a simple set of steps you can follow that makes things easier. Let’s explore what to do after a car accident, using clear, straightforward language and practical advice. By knowing these steps, you’ll feel more prepared and less overwhelmed during a difficult time.
Start by making sure everyone is safe. If you or someone else is hurt, call 911 right away. Even minor injuries can get worse later, so don’t ignore them. If the accident is minor and your car can still move, pull over to a safe spot away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you. If your vehicle is stuck or in a hazardous location, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
No matter how minor the crash may seem, it’s a good idea to report it to the police. A police report gives you a written record that may help with your auto insurance claim. When officers arrive, explain clearly what happened. Don’t guess or make up details. Just share what you saw and remember. The officer will write a report, which you can ask for later.
Use your phone to take pictures of everything:
Also, write down or save these details:
Good photos and notes can make the insurance process much easier.
After you leave the scene and get to a safe place, contact your insurance company. You don’t need to have all the answers, share what happened. Please give them the photos and notes you took. The sooner you report the accident, the smoother your claim process will be. This is one of the most crucial steps in car accident insurance, as it helps avoid delays or confusion later.
Accidents create paperwork. You’ll likely receive receipts, reports, and messages from various sources. To stay organised, keep everything together. This might include:
Having everything in one folder helps you find what you need quickly and efficiently.
Your insurance provider will assign someone called a claims adjuster. This person will assess the damage, ask questions, and determine how much the insurance company will pay. Answer their questions honestly. If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to say so. Keep track of your calls or emails with the adjuster and make notes for yourself after each conversation.
Once the claim is approved, you can take your car for repairs. Request a written estimate from the repair shop before the work commences. After the repairs are done, save the receipt and photos of the finished work. If your car is unable to be driven, ask your insurance company if they’ll cover towing or a rental car.
Many people are unaware of exactly what their insurance covers until they need it. After an accident, it’s a good idea to look at your policy and see what’s included. Look for things like:
If something isn’t clear, reach out to your insurance agent for a simple explanation.
Some injuries, like whiplash or muscle pain, can show up days after the crash. If you feel sore or notice anything unusual, consult a doctor and notify your insurance company. Also, recheck your car after a day or two. If you initially missed any damage, take new pictures and update your claim. It’s better to speak up early than to wait too long.
Accidents are stressful enough. Not knowing what to do next exacerbates the situation. That’s why following the proper car accident insurance steps can help you feel more in control. You protect yourself, stay within your insurance rules, and avoid delays in getting help. At Fuller Insurance Agency, we’re here to help before, during, and after any accident. If you have any questions about your coverage or would like to review your current plan, please contact us today. We’re just a call away.
Fill out a form and a team member will reach out within one business day.
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Try to get the license plate number, make, and color of the car. Call the police right away. If possible, look around for cameras or witnesses.
It depends on the details of the crash and your insurance history. Ask your agent for a clear answer based on your plan.
Your policy may help if you have uninsured motorist coverage. This can pay for your damages and injuries.
It’s best to speak with your provider first. If the other company contacts you, please notify your insurance team.
