Step 4
If another vehicle is involved, get the car's year, make, model and
license plate number; the driver's name, address and license number;
and the name of his or her insurance company. If the driver does not
own the car, get the name of the car's owner. Write down names and
addresses of other passengers or witnesses.
Step 5
Write down the names and badge numbers of police and emergency
personnel at the scene. Ask the officer how to obtain a copy of the
police report for your insurance claim.
Step 6
If you suspect that the other driver was under the influence of
alcohol or drugs, ask that a breath test be performed on you and the
other driver.
Step 7
Cooperate with the police, but do not admit guilt for the accident
in any way. You may be required to show proof of insurance, but do
not reveal how much coverage you have.
Step 8
Do not accept any money the other driver may offer. By accepting
money, you may give up your right and the insurance company's right
to file a claim against the other driver, even if the damages turn
out to be more extensive than you first thought.
Step 9
Do not agree to forget about a minor accident. You may see later
that there were hidden damages or injuries. The other person may
even file a lawsuit against you.
Step 10
Write an account of what happened: time of day, weather, hazards,
road conditions and driving speed. Draw a picture of the site,
showing stop signs, signal lights, etc. Try to measure skid marks
and determine the point of impact. Note any damage already on other
cars involved. If a camera is available, take pictures of the
accident. Make copies of the pictures.
Step 11
Report the accident to your insurance agent or company as soon as
possible.
|
