What to do if there is an accident:

1. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
   If you or your passengers are injured, call 911 or ask someone else to do so. If you’re seriously injured, try not to move, and wait for emergency personnel.
2. GET TO SAFETY
   If you’re able to, move to the side of the road or a sidewalk. If your car is safe to drive and is causing a hazard where it is, pull it to the side of the road. Otherwise, leave it where it is and get yourself to safety.
3. CALL 911
   Whether an accident is considered a minor fender-bender or a major collision, calling the police is important. The responding officers will fill out an accident report and document the scene. If the police can’t come to the scene of the accident, you can go to the nearest police station and complete a report yourself. When you file a claim with your insurer, they may ask for a copy of the police report to help with the claims process.
4. EXCHANGE INFORMATION
   Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. The most important information drivers should exchange after an accident is:
   • Full name and contact information
   • Insurance company and policy number
   • Driver’s license and license plate number
   • Type, color, and model of vehicle
   • Location of the accident

   It is recommended that you avoid discussing fault when going over the facts with the other driver. When you file an insurance claim, the adjuster reviewing your claim will determine who is at fault based on an inspection of the vehicles/property damaged, information provided by you and the other parties involved in the accident, and any supporting documentation, such as police report or photographs from the scene.

5. DOCUMENT THE ACCIDENT
   In order to help protect yourself, the Insurance Information Institute recommends taking the following steps:
   • Identify the officers.
     Once the police arrive, get the name and badge number of all responding officers.
   • Get a copy.
     We can assist you in getting a police report.
   • Take pictures.
     Document the accident thoroughly by taking pictures of your vehicle from different angles, showing the damage done to both cars. It might also be a good idea to take pictures of the other car’s license plate. You may be able to share photos with your insurer during the claims process to help support your claim.
   • Take down names.
     Write down the names and addresses of all parties involved, including any passengers in the other vehicle.
   • Talk to witnesses.
     If there were any witnesses to the accident, take down their names and their contact information as well.

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