No one plans to be in a car accident, and it can be overwhelming when it happens. Knowing what to do immediately afterward can help protect your safety, and make filing an auto insurance claim much smoother. It also helps ensure you have the information your insurance company needs.
Here are a few best practices to keep in mind if you’re ever involved in an accident.
Put Safety First
You’re first priority should always be the safety of everyone involved.
Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured. If the accident is minor and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to help prevent another accident.
When law enforcement responds, cooperate fully and follow their instructions.
Gather Important Information
Before leaving the scene, collect as much information as possible, including:
- The other driver’s name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Photos of all vehicles involved
- Photos of the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible damage
- Contact information for any witnesses
The more information you have, the easier it can be to process your claim.
Avoid Discussing Fault
It’s best to avoid admitting fault or speculation about what caused the accident.
Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver, law enforcement, and your insurance company. The insurance companies will investigate the accident and determine liability.
Report the Claim Promptly
One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting too long to report an accident.
Contact your insurance company—or your independent agent—as soon as possible after the accident, even if you’re unsure how extensive the damage is. Having your policy information, photos, and accident details ready can help speed up the process.
What Happens After You File a Claim?
Once your claim has been reported, your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to review the accident.
Depending on the situation, the adjuster may:
- Review the accident details
- Inspect your vehicle or review photos of the damage
- Determine what your policy covers
- Coordinate repairs or issue payment for covered damages
Every claim is different, so the timeline can vary depending on the circumstances.
We’re Here to Help
Accidents are stressful, but filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be.
If you’re an Ingram Insurance customer, our team is here to answer your questions, explain the claims process, and help guide you every step of the way.
If you ever have questions about filing an auto insurance claim, give our office a call at (270) 842-3322.
