Car Accident? What Do I Do?

I think one of the most stressful, not to mention dangerous, events a person can go through is a car accident.  Having been in a few myself (one really bad one where the SUV I was a passenger in rolled going 70 mph, probably rolled at least 7 times), I know how hard it is to regroup after an accident (if that is even possible).  But I do think it is helpful to have a guide (you could print one out and put it in the glovebox, maybe with the ID Card) to go over if needed.

Here is a comprehensive guide on what steps you should take following an auto accident to safeguard your interests:

1. Prioritize Safety:

   • Ensure the safety of all parties involved. If there are injuries, promptly call for medical assistance.
   • Move vehicles to a safe location if possible, especially if the accident occurred in a high-traffic area.

2. Exchange Information:

   • Collect the names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information of all parties involved in the accident.
   • Note the make, model, and license plate numbers of the vehicles.

3. Document the Scene:

   • Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, license plates, and the surrounding environment.
   • Note the time, date, and weather conditions.

4. Contact Law Enforcement:

   • If there are injuries or significant property damage, contact local law enforcement to file a police report.
   • Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.

5. Limit Communication:

   • Refrain from admitting fault or making any statements that could be construed as an admission of liability.
   • Direct all inquiries from other parties or their insurance companies to your claims representative.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company:

   • Contact our claims department as soon as possible to report the accident.
   • Provide detailed information about the incident and any documentation you have gathered.

7. Seek Medical Attention:

   • Even if injuries seem minor initially, seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
   • Keep records of medical treatment, prescriptions, and any related expenses.

8. Follow Claims Process:

   • Work closely with your assigned claims representative. Provide all requested information and documentation promptly.
   • Keep records of all communication with the claims representative.

9. Repair Estimates:

   • Obtain repair estimates from reputable auto repair shops and share them with your claims representative.
   • Wait for authorization before proceeding with repairs.

10. Be Wary of Settlement Offers:

    • Consult with your claims representative before accepting any settlement offers from other parties or their insurance companies.
    • Ensure the settlement covers all damages, including potential future expenses related to the accident.

Remember that Lisa, Mr. Womack, and myself are almost always available.  If you are in the Oklahoma City Metro Area (Yukon, Edmond, Deer Creek, Piedmont, Guthrie, Mustang, Norman, Moore, etc.), or outside the metro or even outside the state (like Texas, Colorado, Missouri, or Utah), we will always try our best to answer your questions.  And if we don't know the answer, we will do our best to find it.