Wondering what to do when you get in a car accident? You’re not alone.
Even drivers who been on the road for decades can experience a “mind blank” as a result of certain types of trauma following a crash, which can make it difficult to recall the details of the incident after it occurs.
Yet keeping those details straight is incredibly important after an accident, as they can often help determine fault and impact insurance rates. Here, Central’s experts in loss control provide steps you can take to help successfully navigate the immediate aftermath of an accident.
5 Steps to Take After a Car Accident
1. Notify the Police
Always contact the police to file a report, as this can be crucial in resolving any disputes about liability.
Keep in Mind: While it’s generally advised not to move your car until the police arrive, there are situations where moving your vehicle might be necessary to prevent further issues.
2. Take Photos
Document the damage to all vehicles involved by taking photos and videos. These images will be crucial in helping police and insurance companies determine who is at fault. Be sure to back up these files to the cloud upon arriving home so you don’t lose them.
3. Exchange Insurance Information
Exchanging insurance details with the other party will expedite the claims process. If the other party is slow to report the claim to their carrier, having their information allows you to notify their insurance company directly.
Learn More: What To Do After a Total Loss Car Wreck
4. Stay Calm
It’s essential to remain calm and composed when you get in a car accident. Taking out your frustrations on the other driver won’t help the situation. They are likely feeling stressed and regretful as well. Instead, try to lead with empathy and kindness, and avoid language that indicates fault or that could lead to an argument.
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5. Notify Your Insurance Carrier
Contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible after an accident. Prompt notifications help us reach out to all parties involved and gather accurate information, which allows us to make a more efficient liability decision.
Remember: In some unfortunate situations, accidents result in injuries that will prevent you from taking these steps. Don’t worry; your insurance company is here to handle these scenarios. Your safety is our primary concern, and we’ll ensure everything is sorted out.
The Central Difference
At Central Insurance, we understand that accidents can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer comprehensive insurance coverage designed to provide peace of mind when the worst happens.
With a personal or commercial auto policy, you can rest assured that you’re protected against unexpected events, allowing you to focus on your recovery rather than the financial aftermath.
What’s more, our dedicated claims team is committed to supporting you every step of the way, ensuring a fair and prompt resolution.
Learn More: How to Speed Up the Claims Process
Choosing Central Insurance means choosing a partner who is always ready to assist you, offering the protection and support you need when it matters most. Get in touch with a Central agent today to learn more about how we can help.
The information above is of a general nature and your policy and coverages provided may differ from the examples provided. Please read your policy in its entirety to determine your actual coverage available.
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