What To Do After An Auto Accident

Auto accidents are unexpected and stressful. Even the most careful drivers may be involved. You can always be ready for accidents, though, and there are a number of steps you can take after an accident to ensure you'll get the help you need.

Always Keep These Things With You On The Road

• A pen
• A piece of paper
• A card with relevant medical information for you and your family
• Insurance Pink Slip

What To Do After An Auto Accident

• Stay as calm as possible.
• Check for injuries. Life and health are more important than damage to vehicles.
• If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, move cars to a safe place, rather than risk being in moving traffic.
• Turn on hazard lights. If warranted, and possible, use cones, warning triangles, or flares for safety.
• Make note of specific damages to all vehicles involved.
• Write down the names, addresses, and licence numbers of persons involved in the accident. Also, write a description of the other vehicles.
• Call the police, even if the accident is minor.
• Jot down names and addresses of anyone who may have witnessed the accident. This can prevent disagreement concerning how the accident actually happened.
• Notify your insurance agent about the accident immediately.
• Don't sign any document unless it is for the police or your insurance agent
• Make immediate notes about the accident including the specific damages to all vehicles involved. If the name on the auto registration and/or insurance policy is different from the name of the driver, establish the relationship and jot it down. Get witness information, if possible, as well.
• Be polite, but don't tell the other drivers or the police that the accident was your fault, even if you think it was. Likewise, do not accuse the other drivers of being at fault at this time. Everyone is usually shaken up immediately after an accident, and it is wise to state only the facts. Limit your discussion of the accident to the insurance agent and the police. Even if the facts are embarrassing or detrimental to you, be truthful.
• Obtain the insurance carrier information from the other vehicles involved in the accident.
• If you have a camera handy, and it is safe to do so, it may be helpful to photograph the accident scene.
• If possible, do not leave the accident scene before the police officers and other drivers do.
• Finally, remember that while getting the facts is very important, investigating the accident should be left to the police officers and the insurance companies.

If You Choose Select Service And Your Vehicle Is Driveable

• You or your State Farm agent can schedule an appointment with a Select Service® repairer.
• The repairer will prepare an estimate and provide you with a copy.
• With your authorization, the repairer will schedule a date to repair your vehicle and order any parts that are needed.
• When you are satisfied with the completed repairs, you pay any applicable deductible. State Farm pays the balance of accident-related repair costs directly to the repairer.