Car accidents can be an unsettling experience, even if you escaped serious injury. While filing an auto insurance claim might be the last aspect on your mind after a crash, it’s important to keep a clear head and take steps to protect your interests later. Below are a few critical steps to take immediately after a crash.

What to Do After an Auto Accident

1. Don’t Admit Fault

You might feel compelled to apologize for the crash and offer to pay for damages, even if the collision wasn’t your fault. However, the other driver’s insurer could use these statements as grounds for denying your claim. To avoid making a statement that could be considered an admission of fault, it’s best to avoid discussing the accident at all.

2. Exchange Insurance Information

If you’re both physically able, exchange driver’s license and auto insurance information with the other driver. At a minimum, you’ll need their full name, address, driver’s license number, insurance carrier, and policy number.

3. Call the Police

Most states require drivers to notify police of an accident in which someone is seriously injured, but it can also streamline your insurance claim. The police report can be a powerful piece of evidence explaining how the accident occurred and who was responsible.

4. Collect Evidence

Photographic evidence and eyewitness statements will help the insurance companies determine the cause of the crash and who should be held liable. Before leaving the scene, take pictures of the damage to both vehicles, as well as your own injuries, and get the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident.

5. Call Your Insurance Agent

Most auto insurance policies require you to submit a claim a few days after an accident, but it’s usually best to call as soon as possible. Your insurance agent will walk you through the process of filing a claim, taking some of the stress off of your shoulders.

Auto accidents can occur at any time, so it’s important to have an experienced agent dedicated to protecting you from the unexpected. For over 30 years, Goggans Insurance has provided Scottsboro, AL, drivers with high-quality auto insurance policies tailored to their needs and budget. Visit their website to learn more about their auto coverage options, get tips and news on Facebook, or call (256) 574-3440 to request a free quote today.