Car Wreck: The 13 Steps if an Accident Occurs

The 13 Steps if an Accident Occurs

Unfortunately, bad things do happen, no matter how careful we are. Think through these 13 steps now. If a car accident happens, you'll know what to do.

1. Promptly notify the police and call for an ambulance if anyone is hurt.

2. Cooperate with the authorities who come to the scene.

3. Take reasonable steps to protect your vehicle from another loss. Consider moving it out of the flow of traffic.

4. Try to record everything on the scene. Your notes should include details of the accident, identification of the autos and people involved, and the names and badge numbers of all emergency personnel. Take pictures if possible.

5. Insist on breath tests if you suspect drugs or alcohol are involved.

6. Do not accept money. Do not accept fault. Do not agree to forget about the auto accident.

7. Get copies of all police reports.

8. Have the insurance company inspect and appraise the damage before any steps are taken to repair it.

9. Cooperate with the auto insurance carrier representative in the investigation, defense or settlement.

10. Send your car insurance carrier copies of any notice or legal papers received in connection with the accident as soon as possible. Make sure you keep the originals.

11. If you are injured, submit to physical examinations by physicians selected by the insurance carrier as often as they reasonably require. (The insurance carrier pays the cost of these examinations.)

12. Give your authorization for the insurance carrier to obtain medical reports and other pertinent records.

13. File a claim.