A Crash Course in Handling a Car Accident
December 4, 2023
The United States is linked together by a vast network of highways and byways, city streets and country roads. New York is no exception, with over 240,000 miles of roadways and over 3 million registered automobiles according to Statistica.com. Factor in cars and trucks here from other states, and it’s no wonder that collisions are a daily occurrence.
From fender benders to head-on collisions, any kind of an automotive impact can be physically jarring and nerve shattering. If, at some point, you find yourself in a car accident, this article will shed light on the steps to take to prioritize your safety and handle the situation correctly.
Move Away from the Danger Zone: If you can do so safely, move your vehicle to the side of the road to prevent further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights. Check for injuries, both in your vehicle and in the other vehicle(s) involved.
Contact the Police: Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, and wait at the scene until police come to file a report.
Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. This typically includes names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance company names, policy numbers, and license plate numbers.
Document the Accident: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road conditions. Write down the date, time, location, and weather conditions.
Be Cautious with Statements: Be careful about admitting fault or making statements that could be used against you in a legal proceeding. Stick to the facts when talking to the other party and the police.
Gather Witnesses: If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. They may be helpful if there are disputes about what happened.
Notify Your Insurance Agent: Contact your insurance agent to report the accident and start the claims process. New York is a “no-fault” insurance state. If injuries involved, you must contact your own agent to discuss.
Rey Insurance: Your trusted advisor working for your best interests
Keep in mind that these actions can vary depending on the severity of the accident, local laws, and your location. The independent insurance professionals at Rey can be of invaluable help during this process, advising you on next steps and how to best handle the situation. Having someone knowledgeable on your side can make a big difference in navigating the complex world of insurance. Find out more by visiting www.reyinsurance.com/services/personal/ny-auto-insurance or call us at 914-631-7628.
