Being involved in a car accident is stressful and chaotic, but knowing what to do in the moment can make a big difference for your safety, your insurance claim, and your peace of mind. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, follow these steps to protect yourself and your vehicle.
1. Ensure Safety First
🚧 Move Your Vehicle: If possible, move your car to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic or causing further accidents.
🧍♀️ Check for Injuries: Make sure you and your passengers are safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
2. Call the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, contact local law enforcement. A police report is crucial for documenting the accident and can be a valuable piece of evidence when filing a claim.
3. Exchange Information
Get the following from the other driver:
- Name and contact information
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance company and policy number
- Vehicle make and model
📸 Tip: Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and the other driver’s insurance card for your records.
4. Collect Witness Information
If there are any witnesses nearby, ask for their names and contact info. Their statements could help support your side of the story if there are disputes about fault.
5. Provide an Accurate Statement
When the police arrive, describe what happened calmly and clearly. Avoid guessing or speculating about what occurred. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
6. Call Your Insurance Provider
Most insurance companies prefer you to call them directly to report the accident. Share the details in your own words and provide any documentation you’ve gathered. The sooner you start the claims process, the quicker it can be resolved.
Need help? New Frontier Insurance is here to assist you through the entire process.
For more information, read Progressive’s official guide on what to do after an accident.
Conclusion
The aftermath of an accident can feel overwhelming, but staying calm and knowing what to do can make a huge difference. Prioritize safety, collect accurate information, and report the incident quickly to streamline your claim.
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