At some point in your life you will probably get into an auto accident. Hopefully that will never happen but you need to be prepared in case it does. If you do get into accident you will most likely file a claim against and insurance company, whether it be yours or the other person in the accident. Filing a claim does not have to be scary. Here are some simple tips in the event you get into an accident and have to file an insurance claim.
If you do get into a fender bender it is best to call 911 just to be safe. You need to get the cops out there and/or an ambulance in case someone is hurt. The police officer will write an accident report for you to give to your insurance company. It is important to get the contact information of all people involved in the accident as well as any witnesses and the police handling the report.
Borrow a cell phone or use your own to contact your insurance company while you are still at the scene of the accident. See if they can send out an insurance representative to come out and write a detailed report of the accident including who was at fault and any damages.
Take some photos of the accident scene, property damage and any other necessary information if possible. Most cell phones take photos now so use to take your photos. If you have a camera those pictures are even better. It is better to have them and not need them then need them and not have them. These photos could come in handy if a dispute arises later.
Right after the accident make sure you write down the details of the event. You can also use the recording device that most cell phones have. Record all of the minor details of the accident including speed you were traveling, where the accident happened, weather, visibility, time of day and anything else that might be good to know. You may not need this information but it is good to have. It is best to be organized. If you get into an ugly lawsuit over the accident the more prepared you are the better.
If you see the potential for legal action make sure you hire a skilled, experienced and wise attorney. Also, don’t sign anything that releases any rights that you may have. An insurance company might request you to sign some documents. Read them carefully and have your attorney read them. You may get involved with an accident where there are no injuries and no disputes so an attorney may not be necessary. However, when money is on the line and the possibility of lawsuits, medical injuries or other liability then hiring an attorney is a good idea.
If you drive a lot there is chance at some point in your life that you will be in an auto accident. Although, these tips are fairly obvious following them will help you in filing an insurance claim or if a legal dispute arises between you and the other party.
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