If anyone is hurt badly, call for emergency services right away.
In some states, it’s required by law to pull your car out of the way of traffic after an accident.
If the police aren’t available to come onto the scene, you can file a report by visiting a police station within 72 hours of the accident.
Turn this information into a string you can memorize and give it a rhythm. For example: “Blue Toyota Corolla 922 RIE. ” Try to take a picture of the car if you can do it safely. If the other car flees the scene, this will be helpful when you report your accident.
This is especially important if the other driver was at fault.
Full name, address, and email address. Driver’s license number. License plate number. Insurance company and policy number. Make, model and color of the vehicle.
The pictures will be for your insurance company, so they should paint an accurate picture of the scene.
Some states don’t require you to report your accident if no one got hurt or the vehicle wasn’t damaged. If you don’t know your specific state’s laws, make a report just to be on the safe side. If the officer provides a reference number for the police report, make sure you jot it down. If the other car fled the scene, you can tell the police officer any information you remember about their car.
Be especially careful to not admit fault when talking to the other driver or the police. If you do, it’ll be recorded in the police report.
This is especially important if your car needs repairs.
Your insurance company may suggest a mechanic or auto body shop to go to; however, you can choose any repair person that you’d like.
