By The Lambert Agency | Austin, Texas
Being involved in a car accident, whether it’s a mere minor fender-bender, or a very serious roll-over accident, can be very stressful. In the immediate moments that follow the car accident, there are certain actions which should be taken which will likely make a major difference in protecting your insurance claim and also ensuring you receive the right level of coverage you’re entitled to. Here at The Lambert Agency, we’ve seen way too many Texans lose out on rightful compensation, simply due to mistakes made after the initial car accident. Here’s what you should do immediately after a car accident to protect both yourself and your insurance claim.
Make Safety Your First Priority
Safety is paramount in nearly every accident type, but it’s especially important after a car accident. Try your best to move your vehicle to a safe location if it’s still operable. If it’s not, relocate yourself to a safe spot while you await the arrival of police, fire, and EMTs. Call 911 if anyone is hurt or if there’s significant damage to either car(s) or surrounding property. Even if the accident seems to be a minor accident, being checked out by a trained medical professional is very important. They may be able to see telltale signs of something wrong and recommend a trip to the hospital for further monitoring. Some injuries will take hours or even several days to show up.
Contact Law Enforcement
You should always call the police to visit the crash scene, even for smaller accidents. A police report will provide you with official documentation and records of what happened. This information can be critical for when filing your initial insurance claim. Always ensure to write down the responding officer’s name, badge number, and the report number prior to leaving the scene.
Document Everything
The more information you collect, the better protected you are later on down the road.
Here’s what you should always try to document:
- Clear photos of any vehicle damage, license plates, the scene, and any and all visible injuries
- Names, phone numbers, and insurance details for all parties involved
- Contact information for witnesses, if any involved
If you’re too shaken or injured to take notes, use your phone’s voice memo app to record any and all details while they’re still fresh in your mind.
Avoid Admitting Fault
Emotions may certainly run high after the initial accident, but you should try to resist the urge to apologize or make any statements which could be misinterpreted as admitting fault, as this could be used against you in future proceedings. Even simple statements where you say “I didn’t see you there…” could hurt your case later on. Allow the investigation and insurance adjusters to properly determine responsibility.
Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Texas insurance policies require you to always report accidents within a “reasonable timeframe”. Waiting too long may lead to an inevitable denial in claim or a delay in processing. When you contact your insurance company, always stick to the facts of the situation, and avoid speculating about fault or damage costs.
Keep a Record of All Communication
Create a simple folder which is easily accessible and can store digital files for your claim. Add copies of the police report, medical bills, repair estimates, and correspondence with your insurer. Additionally, any notes from phone calls should be accurately recorded as well. Organization is crucial when it comes to having your claim processed quickly and accurately.
Get Professional Guidance Before Accepting a Settlement
Insurance companies may try to offer a quicker payout to close your case expeditiously. With this being said, the first initial offer may not truly reflect the full value of your damages. This is especially true if medical treatment or vehicle repairs are ongoing. Prior to accepting any settlement from an insurance company, you’ll want to speak with an experienced insurance professional or legal professional who can better help you understand the process and ensure you’re being treated fairly.
Choose the Right Coverage for the Future
The best way to properly protect your claim after an accident occurs is to have the right level of coverage with your insurance policy before an accident actually happens. Here at The Lambert Agency, we assist drivers throughout the greater Austin, Texas and Central Texas region find the most comprehensive and affordable auto insurance coverage possible, all designed to protect you in real-life scenarios, not just on paper.
Contact The Lambert Agency Today to Learn More About How We Can Help
Accidents can be truly chaotic, yet when you take proactive, informed steps after an accident occurs, it can truly make a world of difference. Protecting yourself, documenting all aspects of the accident thoroughly, and not rushing into any immediate settlements without fully understanding your rights can help you better protect your insurance claim. If you have been recently involved in a car accident and need help navigating your insurance claim or reviewing your coverage, reach out to The Lambert Agency today. Our Austin-based team is always here to guide you through each step of the process and ensure you’re fully protected. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
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