Nobody wants to be in a car accident. The sudden jolt, the screech of tires, the sinking feeling in your stomach – it’s a stressful experience. But knowing what to do in those crucial moments can significantly protect yourself, your passengers, and your insurance claim right here in Michigan
As your local independent insurance agency, we’re here to guide you through the process. Take a deep breath, and let’s walk through the essential steps you should take after a car accident.
1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety First:
- Check for Injuries: Immediately assess yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, no matter how minor it seems, call 911 or ask someone else to do it. Don’t try to move seriously injured individuals unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., a burning vehicle).
- Move to a Safe Location (If Possible): If your vehicles are drivable and it’s safe to do so, move them to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot. This helps prevent further accidents and keeps traffic flowing. Turn on your hazard lights to increase visibility.
2. Call the Authorities:
- Contact the Police: It’s generally recommended to call the police, especially if:
- There are injuries.
- There is significant damage to property.
- The other driver is uncooperative or doesn’t have insurance information.
- You suspect the other driver is under the influence.
- Obtain a Police Report: Get the police report number and the name and badge number of the responding officer. This report can be crucial for your insurance claim.
3. Exchange Information:
- Stay Calm and Polite: Even if you’re shaken up, try to remain calm and polite when interacting with the other driver(s). Avoid assigning blame at the scene.
- Collect Essential Information: Exchange the following details with all other involved parties:
- Full Name and Contact Information: Driver’s full name, address, phone number, and email address.
- Driver’s License Information: Driver’s license number and issuing state.
- Vehicle Information: Make, model, year, and license plate number of all vehicles involved.
- Insurance Information: Insurance company name, policy number, and expiration date for all drivers.
- Take Photos: If it’s safe to do so, use your phone to take clear photos of:
- All vehicles involved, showing the damage from various angles.
- The accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signs, and any relevant landmarks.
- The other driver’s driver’s license, license plate(s) and insurance card. When you take photos they will be date and time stamped by your phone.
4. Document the Scene:
- Jot Down Notes: As soon as possible, write down your recollection of the accident. Include details like:
- The date, time, and exact location of the accident.
- Weather and road conditions.
- What you were doing and where you were going.
- A clear and objective description of how the accident happened.
- Any witnesses present and their contact information (if they are willing to provide it).
5. Contact Your Insurance Agent (That’s Us!):
- Reach Out Promptly: Contact our agency as soon as reasonably possible after the accident. We’re here to help you navigate the claims process.
- Provide All Available Information: We will go through a series of questions so we can collect all the information the insurance company will need for your potential claim. We will walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have for us. Share the details you’ve gathered, including the police report number, other driver’s information, and your account of the incident.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask us any questions you have about your coverage, the claims process, or what to expect next. We’ll explain your policy and guide you through the steps.
6. Be Mindful of What You Share Online:
- Limit Social Media Posts: Be cautious about posting details about the accident on social media. Anything you share could potentially be used in the claims process.
What Happens Next?
Once you’ve reported the accident to us, we’ll help you understand the next steps, which typically involve:
- Filing a Claim: We’ll assist you in filing a claim with your insurance company.
- Contact from your insurance company: Your insurance company contact you to discuss the process and gather additional information and documentation.
- Vehicle Repairs: We can help you understand your options for getting your vehicle repaired or replaced.
- Medical Expenses: If you or your passengers were injured, we’ll guide you on how your medical expenses will be handled under Michigan’s no-fault system.
We’re Your Local Advocates:
Remember, you’re not alone in this. As your independent insurance agency right here in Lansing, we’re your advocate. We’ll work with you and the insurance company to ensure a smooth and fair claims process. Keep our contact information handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re involved in an accident. We’re here to help you get back on the road with peace of mind.
Stay safe out there!