The moments following a car accident are scary, and it’s not always easy to remain calm and think clearly. However, certain steps need to be taken to protect yourself and your interests.
- Determine the extent of injuries and damage.
Worry about yourself and the passengers in your car first and if children are involved, it is best to call an ambulance if you’re not sure if they are hurt. Adrenaline can make people numb to the pain at first, so it’s best to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to an automobile accident. - File an accident report with the police.
Any witnesses may have already called the police, so make sure they have been notified of the accident and are sending an officer over. Even minor accidents need to be reported. Do not leave the scene until the report is complete. - Get the Facts.
It is easy to forget
to obtain the other party’s information immediately following an accident, but this is very important for your protection. Take down license plate numbers, contact information, and insurance information. This will protect you in case the other motorist leaves the scene before the police arrive. - Call your insurance company.
Once you have given your report to the police and obtained the other party’s information, call your auto insurance agent in Peoria, AZ. You will be given a claim number that you will need to reference in any future communications with your insurance company regarding the incident.