Almost every driver gets into some sort of car accident at some point. It's important to know the procedures for getting the other driver your information so they know how to contact you afterwards. If you simply drive away from an accident, even if it is small, it is known as a hit and run. You might even hit a car while no one is in it, but it is still important to leave your information so they can contact you. Of course, if the accident was severe your first goal is to get someone to contact 911.
The first step, which most people forget, is to not admit fault. Even if the car accident was your fault it is not wise to admit it to the other driver. If it is later found out that the accident wasn?t your fault, you may still be forced to pay for the damages because you said it was. Try to be calm and handle the situation in an orderly fashion so everyone involved can get back to what they were doing.
Immediately exchange your insurance information with the car?s driver. Make certain that you provide all details like phone numbers, names, and addresses so that both parties can contact each other. This is the reason why it is essential to always carry your insurance proof in the car. In case you carry them with you, then you might have to give it to the other party afterwards.
If both parties involved in accident are ready to wait then you can make a call to your insurance company and ask your claims representative to come and evaluate the damage caused. At times, this may not be possible, but you should always call your claims representative as soon as you can. The representative will take some pictures of the accident spot and damages while you are around; get your claims form filled, speak to the other people involved in the crash, and may be also talk to those who saw the accident.
You must also click pictures at the spot and nearby areas before the mess is cleared and vehicles are removed. These days it?s become very easy as most people have mobile phone cameras. So, take enough pictures which may help describe the accident scene.
Once you have called your claims representative, taken pictures, and exchanged information you are usually free to leave the scene. By now a police officer would have arrived to help sort out the mess and tow trucks may be taking away your vehicles. Sometimes the damage is light enough so that tow trucks aren?t necessary. Even so, it may be weeks or months until you get a check in the mail, so you may have to initially pay for the repairs yourself at first.
The fund you receive is decided by the lowest fixing quote provided to the insurance company. If they total your car then you will get the ?blue book value? for your vehicle. The ?blue book value? is your car?s standard price set after taking into account the age, state, and model of the car. If you had made any alterations in your car, then you will not be paid for that.
About the Author:
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.
Get all the information and photos:: http://coringa.info/finance/the-correct-way-to-report-a-car-accident-for-insurance
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