Getting into a minor fender bender is always stressful. However, knowing exactly what to do next makes a huge difference. If you handle the scene correctly, you will have a much easier time filing a car insurance claim. Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Move Your Vehicle and Call the Police
First, check everyone for injuries. If the cars can still drive safely, you must move them out of the traffic lanes. This keeps everyone safe and keeps traffic moving. Next, assess the other driver. If the other person is uncooperative or angry, call the police immediately. Always ask to file an official police report because it provides a reliable record of the crash.
Swap Details and Find Witnesses for a Car Insurance Claim
Always exchange contact information with the other driver. Get their full name, phone number, and current car insurance details. Additionally, look around for anyone who saw the crash happen. Ask for their phone numbers, too. Witnesses can prove exactly what happened if the other driver changes their story later on.
Document the Accident Scene
Before you leave the area, pull out your smartphone. Take clear pictures of the damage on both cars. Also, snap a quick photo of the other driver’s license plate and insurance card. Furthermore, if you use a dash cam in your vehicle, save the video file right away. Video proof is the absolute best way to speed up your car insurance claim.
Talk to the Car Insurance Company
If the other driver is clearly at fault, ask them to file a claim with their company right then. Insist that both of you give a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster while the details are fresh. This locks in their story.
However, you must be careful with your own words. Stick only to the facts. Never admit fault, and do not tell the adjuster you are completely uninjured. Adrenaline hides physical pain, and soft tissue injuries often show up a day or two later.
When to Use Your Own Car Insurance
Sometimes, you run into trouble with the other driver’s company. For instance, the damages might exceed your collision deductible, making it smarter to file the claim with your own policy. Other times, you might discover the at-fault driver let their policy lapse. If their company denies the claim, your uninsured motorist coverage will step in to help pay for the damage.
Find the Right Coverage with a Local Agent
Finally, make sure you have the right protection long before an accident happens. Shopping for car insurance or home insurance is simple when you use a local independent insurance agent. The dedicated team at AlphaSure Affordable Insurance Services can help you compare different options. We work hard to find you the best rates and the exact coverage you need. Reach out to AlphaSure Affordable Insurance Services today to review your current policy and drive with true peace of mind.
