Published: December 26, 2019

It is the day after Christmas and people are out running around shopping, returning home from the relatives or just running errands as they may have the rest of the week off. 

Being involved in a car accident can happen any time of year but it is always stressful and overwhelming. 

So let’s talk about it now so that if and when you are in an accident, you know what to do. This can help you get the right information from the scene of the accident and protect you from any liability. 

One of our insurance providers, Traveler’s Insurance, has a great accident form here. Print these off and ensure they are in all your vehicle’s glove compartments. This form will help you gather the pertinent info you need. Also, though it seems basic, make sure you also put a pen or pencil in there too. 

Another item you might consider is reflective triangles so that your car is more visible on the roadside following an accident. You will also need your current insurance certificate, vehicle registration and first aid kit. 

If you are involved in an accident, make sure to do these things: 

  • Turn on your hazard lights.
  • Place reflective triangles while being mindful of oncoming traffic. 
  • Check on all involved in the accident. 
  • If able, call 911 if someone needs emergency medical attention. If you are not sure, call.
  • Call the police even if it is a minor accident. This is helpful in case anyone later develops injuries or discovers unseen damage later. 
  • Make sure you get the police deparment’s jurisdiction, and the officer’s name. 
  • Exchange information with the other driver. You will need name, phone, email, license plate number, make model and insurance information. 
  • Get witnesses contact information. 
  • Take pictures of the accident scene & involved vehicles if it is safe to do so.
  • Create a detailed description of the accident. Include date, time, location, weather and road conditions. Note the behavior of other drivers and the condition of other vehicles. Before leaving the scene, write down as much detail as you can. For example, were their headlights, tail lights, brake lights on? Was there preexisting damage you noticed? Recall if the other driver was using their cell phone at the time of the accident. Can you draw a diagram or sketch of the accident scene? 
  • Report your claim to you insurance company as soon as you can. 

Our wish for you is that you stay accident free. But if for some reason you don’t we want to make sure you are reminded of the steps you should follow. 

Keeping you protected.

 

Rick

 

All Access Insurance in Littleton, CO,  who represents multiple insurance companies as a “Broker” and provides products for auto, home,  commercial, workers compensation, and much more! Call us today for a free quote at (303) 932-1700.