Do you know what to do in case you are in an accident? Many insurance companies give you a little card or package with forms to fill out. Lets break it down into some easy steps:
1. Is anyone hurt? Call 911 and get help immediately on the way.
2. If no one is hurt, are the cars easily movable? If so, in many states you are required to move them to the side of the road, out of more harms way.
3. If there is substantial damage - call the police. This is to document the damage and ascertain if anyone is at fault.
4. If there is minor damage. A dent is not a reason to call police, they have better things to do. Often all you need to do is:
5. Exchange information - this is what is usually in the insurance package. You exchange name, address and phone number, driver's license number and insurance information. If you agree on whose fault it is, and it is a minor amount, you can offer to settle amongst yourselves. If the damage is over a certain threshold (varies by state), you must report it to the police and get the insurance companies involved.
6. Can't agree whose fault it is or not sure - if the police get involved - they may or may not assign blame - it might be shared (two cars backing out in a shopping mall at the same time). Note, 50/50 share will result in a chargeable accident on both insurances. If you think you are not at fault, do not admit to any.
7. Call your insurance company. They may not take immediate action, or they may send you a form to fill out.
8. Keep good records. When you get home, write down exactly what happened. Keep records of all phone calls and copies of all forms and letters.
Sounds like a pain, but by following these steps you will minimize any problems later on.
Here's hoping you never get into any accidents.
No comments:
Post a Comment