There are very many ways to prevent an accident. However, living in Green Bay and plying its busy roads adds you an additional burden – the need to be ready for any eventuality. Therefore, it’s critical to prepare for the possibility of a car accident even as you strive to be safe on the roads.
In most cases, accidents cause chaos and confusion. Unless you are equipped to handle such situations, you may miss some very essential steps. Your immediate reaction can either aggravate or lessen the impact on your pocketbook and health.
The first thing to note is that the law obligates you to stop regardless of the extent of damage or injury. Do not move the cars until the police arrive; unless they are a serious traffic hazard. After confirming that everyone is safe and in a safe place, your subsequent steps should primarily focus on making the claims process more straightforward.
With a supportive insurance agency, the claims process should be a no-brainer. At Pagel & Associates Insurance Agency, we help you start claims and work with you through the follow-up and resolution.
Contact The Police
Even if the accident is minor, it’s safe to have a police report. It’s the only legal proof to support an insurance claim or even in a court case.
When you call 911, or even after the police arrive, be objective – simply give your account of the accident without seeming to incriminate the others. Do not admit liability at any cost. Let your agent do the talking and the police their investigation.
The police can also help with cones, firefighters, and an ambulance if necessary. Remember to take the investigating officer’s business card or budge number.
Limit Yourself From Talking About The Accident With The Other Drivers
Avoid unnecessary discussions about how the accident occurred and who is at fault with the other parties. Just exchange official names, phone numbers, insurance firm names, addresses, and insurance policy numbers. Further details should only be divulged to either the police, health experts, or your insurance agency.
Record Information About The Car Accident
The best way is to use a car accident form, which you can obtain from the local DMV or the police.
To file your insurance claim, you will need the following:
1. Facts About The Driver
Legally, all involved parties are required to exchange basic contact details like:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Residential addresses
Do not share your social security number.
2. Facts About How The Accident Happened
Here, you should collect evidence on what could have caused the car accident:
- Did the accident occur by day or night? Was there enough lighting?
- Was it raining? Were any of the drivers involved using headlights, wipers, or turn signals? Is the road wet or icy?
- Ask any present witnesses if the area is notorious for similar accidents. This information can be used to help local authorities make necessary adjustments.
3. Facts About The Cars And Their Insurance
First, check the status of the vehicles and the extent of the damage. If possible, use your cellphone to take snapshots of all the four sides of the involved cars.
You should then record the license plate number, color, make, and model of each vehicle. Next, confirm if the registration and proof of insurance match the driver’s names and details. If not, politely ask them to explain their relationship with the owner.
Call Your Insurance Agent
Call your insurance agent as soon as possible, preferably while still at the accident scene. Why? While emotions may affect how you report the incident to the agency, you can trust the police to give a detailed and more accurate explanation.
Get Support From The Best Insurance Agency In Green Bay, WI
With a reliable and experienced agency, you are guaranteed a smooth and more manageable claims process.
Call Pagel & Associates Insurance Agency at 920-544-0687 for individualized and client-oriented insurance coverage.
