Reader’s Question:

When in an auto accident, what are things that I have to keep in mind that relates to filing a car insurance claim?

Samantha

Augusta ME

It can be very hard to think clearly when you are in the scene of an auto accident already. Therefore, it is essential that you know what needs to be done and what information to gather as early as now just in case the accident will actually occur. Doing these tasks may help hasten the processing of your car insurance claim.

Maintain a peace of mind and keep calm. You cannot think clearly if you panic. There has to be one that will check the injuries needing immediate medical help and that will determine the seriousness of the damages.

Discuss the incident only to the police. It is most recommended that you should not admit liability to the incident. Your goal is to discuss what really happened in a factual manner. Do not express opinions. Determining who’s at fault is the job of your car insurance provider’s investigator based on the evidences and facts gathered.

Do not leave the accident scene without the policeman’s full accident report. This is very important even if the incident is just a very minor matter. This will serve as a legal report that can be one of the bases for your car insurance claim.

Gather as many evidences about the incident as you can. Take down notes and details. These include gathering pictures on the damages to the car, any injuries or casualties involved as well as pictures of the whole incident. Gathering names and contact details of the people in the accident can also be very beneficial, especially those of the witnesses and the other parties in the accident.

Call your auto insurance agent as soon as possible, even while you’re still at the scene. It is recommended that you call him immediately so that when he arrives in the scene, he can be the one to discuss matters with the police and ensure accuracy and completeness of the data gathered to help you with your auto insurance claim.