Being involved in a road accident is one of the worst nightmares of many drivers, and it can be hard to deal with. Though there is no such thing as a “worry-free accident,” knowing the right steps to take to get the insurance claim process started after the car accident is very important.
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Here are the steps you should follow in case you are involved in a car accident.
Step 1 – Stop your engine, be calm, and don’t panic.
Switch on your hazard warning lights and your headlights and get out of the vehicle if you can. Then check if anyone is injured and call the emergency services in case anyone needs medical assistance. Call the police and report the accident.
Step 2 – Don’t blame anyone or accept blame for the accident.
Even if the accident is not your fault, accepting blame to be polite or offering settlement to be courteous could come back to bite you later on. Your insurance company will iron out all the nitty-gritty later.
Step 3 – Gather all necessary information and details about the accident.
The following details should be taken down:
- The personal particulars of the driver(s) involved in the road accident – name(s), IC number(s), address(es), driving license number(s) and telephone contact(s) (if possible)
- The name of the insurance company and Make/model and registration number(s) of the other vehicle(s)
- Registration number of tow truck(s) (if any)
- The precise location of the accident occurrence
- The speed you were driving and date and time of the accident
- Weather and road conditions
- The arrival time of the police, as well as their name and badge number
- Any Witnesses (if possible get their names and contact details)
Step 4 Take photographs of the scene.
Photographs are proof of the accident, and it must include the other driver(s) car, license plates, any havocs done on both vehicles, the directions both vehicles were traveling, and traffic signs. It tends to be difficult to recall these details even a couple of hours after the incident, and the photographs can be helpful to both your insurance company and the police.
Step 5 Make an accident report.
Make sure the accident report includes all officers’ names, badge numbers, and contact information. This information is particularly useful for your potential insurance claim and can help back up the sequence of events should you end up in court.
Step 6 Call a tow truck.
If your car is unsafe to drive, call either your insurer’s roadside assistance service (if provided) or Accident Assist to get your car towed to the nearest panel workshop for repairs and back home safely.
Step 7 File a claim.
File a claim by notifying your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies need you to report the incident immediately. Please take note, do not sign any documents from the other driver’s lawyer or insurance company, your insurance company will take care of this for you.
Step 8 Take care of yourself.
Most times, the physical and emotional injuries caused by car accidents are not immediately apparent and can be different for everyone. Before you rush back to your daily routine unless you are entirely sure you were not injured, you should seek medical attention.
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An car accident can leave even the most prepared driver drained, however following these steps may help shield you from needless worries. That way, you can concentrate on working with your insurance company to get your car fixed with no trouble and as fast as could reasonably be expected.
