What to Do After a Car Accident

If someone just smashed into your new Jeep while you were driving around Council Bluffs, you might be wondering what to do after a car accident. As you know, auto accidents can be highly traumatic for everyone involved. But, knowing what to do after a car accident can make the event a little more bearable. It’s essential to understand what to do after a car accident because right after it happens, it’s often hard to think clearly because you’re usually shaken up. That’s why the auto pros at the Edwards Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT service center want to help. Read on to learn what to do after a car accident.

What to Do After a Car Accident: Checklist

Minor Accidents

If you’re involved in a minor car collision in Omaha, such as a fender-bender, or maybe someone backed into your new Chrysler in a parking lot, here is a checklist of what to do after a minor car accident:

• Always check to see if you or your passengers need immediate medical attention. If so, call for an ambulance right away and follow the instructions for a major accident below.
• If you can, pull your vehicle over to a safe spot. Try not to stray too far from where the accident happened, but make an effort to get out of the way of regular traffic.
• Call the police. No matter what the other driver says or who is at fault, always call the police. You need to have an official report documented, and your insurance company will likely require it.
• Exchange contact information with the other driver. Exchange your phone numbers, email addresses, and the insurance policy information of the other Bellevue person(s) involved. Take a photo of the other driver’s license, license plate numbers, and insurance card. Check for any witnesses to the accident and ask for their contact information as well.
• Check your vehicle for damage. Take detailed photos of any damage to your car and the other vehicle(s) involved. You should also take a picture of the accident scene.
• Call your insurance carrier immediately. The sooner you report the car accident, the sooner the insurance claims process will begin.

Major Accidents

If there were any serious injuries or fatalities, it is considered a major accident, so the steps to take are a bit different:

• Call 911 ASAP. If anyone is seriously injured, someone should dial 911 immediately!. If you’re in need of immediate medical attention and are unable to document important information by yourself, the police will likely consider this. However, it’s always vital to follow up with the police as soon as possible to ensure you have all the information required.
• Contact your insurance carrier. Always follow up with your insurance provider, even if someone else initiated the claim on your behalf.
• Follow up with your physician. If you’re still suffering any pain from the accident, you should continue to work with your regular physician until you feel better.

How to File a Car Accident Insurance Claim

If you want to know how to file a car insurance claim, keep reading. The process is relatively straightforward. When you file a car accident insurance claim with your insurance carrier, you’ll need to provide the following information:

• Your auto insurance policy number
• A detailed description of how the accident happened
• The date, time, and location of the car collision
• Give then all the information you collected from the other parties involved
• The name of the police department that helped you, as well as the police report number (if you have one)

Your insurance provider will arrange to have your car evaluated by an insurance adjuster who will help you gather an estimate for the cost of your auto repairs, coverage, and more. 

Edwards Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT Can Get You Get Back on La Vista Roads

Now that you know how to file a car accident insurance claim, when it’s time to get back to the road, Edwards Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram FIAT’s can help. Contact our service center to schedule an appointment. From auto body damage to mechanical repairs, we’ll have you back up and running on Council Bluffs streets in no time. We will work directly with your auto insurance company to make the situation as hassle-free as possible. Contact us today!