Seven Things You Should Know When In An Accident

Things the insurance company won’t tell you.

At the scene

1. Call the police (even if the other driver pleads with you not to)
2. Take a photo of the other driver’s license plate (Use your cell phone)
3. Take photos of the other driver’s property damage (often the other driver will try to fix and/or minimize some of the damage before any insurance company has an opportunity to take photos and come up with an estimate)
4. Take a couple of photos of the accident scene, especially if the accident happened near construction or a residential area. The scene can change quickly – new lanes, overgrown bushes)
5. Exchange insurance information with other driver
6. Obtain the name, address, phone number and email address of any witness. (Do not rely on the police to actually do this)
7. Have yourself checked out by medical personnel

Afterwards

1. Call your insurance company and report the incident
2. Monitor your medical condition
3. Contact an attorney to help you through the claims process
4. Keep a journal documenting your out-of-pocket expenses, pain, your medical providers and any additional information you are given about any pending insurance claim
5. Document any lost wages

Words to the wise

1. Do not discuss the incident with anyone but your attorney or doctor
2. Do not provide anyone with a recorded statement
3. Do not sign anything without consulting with your attorney
4. Do not release your medical records without first consulting with your attorney