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How to handle an auto accident

Having an auto accident or dealing with a catastrophe is stressful, yet it's important to try to stay calm and focused.

What do I do after an accident?

1. Safety first

  • If the car accident is minor, move vehicles out of traffic to a safe place.
  • Shift into park, turn off your vehicle, and turn on the hazard lights.
  • Use cones, warning triangles, or flares for added safety, if you have them.

2. Get help

  • Check for injuries; call an ambulance when in doubt.
  • Call the police, even if the accident is minor. A police report can be invaluable to the claim process and help establish who's at fault.

3. Collect information

  • Gather information from others involved in the accident.
    • Drivers and passengers: names and contact information.
    • Vehicle descriptions (make, model, year).
    • Driver's license numbers - License plate numbers.
    • Insurance companies and policy numbers.
    • Eyewitnesses: names and contact information.
    • Accident scene location and/or address.
    • Police officer's name and badge number.
  • Take photos of all vehicles involved and the accident scene, if it is safe to do so.
  • Do not sign any document unless it's for the police or your insurance agent.
  • Be polite, but don't tell anyone the accident was your fault, even if you think it was.

4. File a claim

5. Get roadside assistance