Accidents happen, even to careful drivers. The first thing to do after you’ve been in one? Try to remain calm. Keeping a cool head will help you document the wreck thoroughly and accurately.
Follow these steps to ease the stress after a crash, and make the potential claims process more efficient:
1. Check for Injuries and Move to a Safe Area
Immediately determine if anyone is injured. If so, call 911 for an ambulance and the police. Even if the incident was minor, calling the police is sometimes required by law. A police report will also help your insurance company process your claim.
If the vehicles are operational, move them to the shoulder or a safe area. Turn on your hazard lights and use flares or reflective triangles if available. If there’s danger of explosion, evacuate everyone to a safe distance.
2. Exchange Information
You’ll need to exchange basic information with the other driver. Avoid admitting guilt or discussing fault at the scene.
Here’s the information to gather:
- Name and insurance information (including policy number and insurer’s phone number).
- Driver’s phone number (if provided).
- Contact information of any witnesses.
- Police report number, and a copy of the report if possible.
- Police officer’s name and badge number.
3. Document the Crash
Carefully document the scene by taking pictures and notes:
- Photos of the damage to both vehicles.
- Photo of the other driver’s license plate.
- Date and time of the accident.
- Notes about what happened, including road conditions, speed, and direction of the vehicles.
- If possible, draw a diagram of the accident scene.
Some insurance companies, like Geico and Allstate, have apps that can help you document accidents.
4. Decide Whether to File a Claim
Even if the accident seems minor, consider the long-term cost. If the other driver is at fault, file a claim with their insurance company. Your insurer can assist with this process.
Note that you may still need to file a claim with your own insurance if the other driver is underinsured or uninsured. Be prepared to pay a deductible, but your insurer may refund it if they recover costs from the other party.
How Insurance Pays Out After an Accident
The insurance payout depends on who was at fault and the type of coverage you and the other driver have:
If Another Driver is at Fault
The at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers:
- Damage to your car (up to their property damage liability limits).
- Your medical expenses (up to their bodily injury liability limits).
If the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can pay for damages.
If You’re at Fault
Your insurance may cover:
- Injuries to the other driver and passengers (up to your bodily injury coverage limits).
- Damage to the other driver’s car (up to your property damage liability limits).
- Damage to your own car if you have comprehensive and collision coverage.
- Your medical expenses (up to your policy’s medical payments or PIP coverage).
Optional Coverage that Can Help
Here are some optional coverage types that can be beneficial after an accident:
- Emergency Roadside Assistance: Can help if you need a tow.
- Rental Car Reimbursement: Pays for a rental while your vehicle is being repaired.
Car Insurance Rates Can Increase After a Crash
Unfortunately, your car insurance rates may increase after an accident. A study shows that rates can rise by 51% on average. However, some insurers offer accident forgiveness, which can prevent your premiums from going up after a minor at-fault accident.
If you’re worried about higher premiums, consider shopping around for new quotes to find cheaper car insurance options.
