WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A CAR ACCIDENT: Checklist

/ SAGAZ INSURANCE CENTER/

WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF A CAR ACCIDENT?  A simple and useful checklist to keep in mind.

Being in a car accident is a stressful and scary situation.  Nonetheless, Los Angeles is a high traffic city and car accidents are common.  If you should ever find yourself in this situation, here is a useful checklist to keep in mind:

1. CALL 911: It goes without saying, but if somebody is injured, the first step to take is to call 911 and get some help.

2.  If you are in a small fender bender with minor damages to your car, you are NOT required to call the police.  However, if the damages are significant and people are hurt, call the police to get help and ensure a police report.  This also includes if one of the parties involved in under the influence of drugs or alcohol.  

3. Always take as many photos as necessary.  This includes of the other party's DL, insurance card info, damages to your car and their car.  Better to have too many photos than not enough.

4. Avoid speaking about the accident to the other person.  Most importantly never admit fault.  This is extremely important.  Who is "at fault" is determined by insurance adjustors who will evaluate the situation, the only exception being if somebody is driving under the influence, they are automatically at fault. 

5. Avoid discussing insurance coverages with the other party, however, make sure to provide them with your insurance card information. 

6. Collect information from the other party including name, address, phone number, license number, license plate number and insurance card.

7. If the person DOES NOT have insurance, gather as much information as you can about them, including name, address, phone number, and most importantly LICENSE PLATE NUMBER.   (You should eventually find out if you have Uninsured Motorist coverage with your company, as this will help your situation.)

8. Gather names, phones numbers, and addresses of witnesses.

9. Write down information regarding the accident, including:

  • The time and day
  • Where did it happen (street names) and where were you headed
  • Your version of what happened in the accident

10. Lastly, report the accident to your insurance company.  

If you have any further questions, call us at 855-704-7740.

Visit www.sagazinsurance.com for more information.