While the winter months bring great joy and happiness, from holidays with family, to the snow centered activities of skiing, snowboarding, and sledding, we can see the more negative impact of the winter weather months once we hit the roads. Getting in an automobile accident is scary enough, and adding in the factors of snow, cold temperatures, and ice, make it that much worse and that much more important to be cautious and aware every time you get behind the wheel.
In this blog, we are going to provide a few simple reminders of the do’s and don’ts on what to do if you find yourself involved in an automobile accident, and a checklist of how to go about next steps with your insurance provider.
In the event of an automobile accident, please:
DON’T: “Make a Deal” for damages.
DON’T: Leave the scene of even a minor accident.
DON’T: Accept an offer of cash, check, or “private” settlement.
DON’T: Deny injury to you or your passengers.
DON’T: Offer to pay anything even if you think you are at fault.
DON’T: Administer first aid unless you are qualified to do so.
Now, for you things you absolutely should do, follow the Accident Checklist below:
- Ensure that you, your passengers, and all other involved parties are not injured. If injuries are present, call 911 immediately.
- Turn on hazard lights and if possible, move the vehicle to a safe, out of the way location.
- Contact the local police or state highway patrol to report the accident and have an officer come to the scene of the accident. Be sure to obtain the officers name, their responding department, and the accident report number.
- Obtain any witness and other involved party’s contact information. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance carrier name, and insurance policy number.
- Be sure to take photos of the scene and of any damages to all vehicles involved in the accident to provide to your claims adjuster.
- Give your insurance provider a call once the scene has been cleared and you are in a safe location so that you can discuss your coverage, file your claim, and take the next steps in the claims process.
As winter weather continues to create unpredictable driving conditions, being prepared and knowing what to do after an accident can make a stressful situation far more manageable. Staying calm, prioritizing safety, and following these simple do’s, don’ts, and checklist steps can help protect you, your passengers, and your coverage. If you ever find yourself unsure of what to do next, remember that your insurance provider is there to guide you through the process and help you get back on the road safely. Taking a few proactive steps today can make all the difference when it matters most.