The most important thing to ensure after a car accident occurs is that everyone is safe. Once everyone is safe and moved off to the side of the road, notify the police and collect information needed to start the claims process.
Five steps to take after a car accident
Follow these five steps after getting into a car accident.
Make sure everyone is safe
Confirm that your passengers are alright and then check on the passengers in the other vehicle. Dial 911 if anyone requires medical attention. Remember don’t move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger.
Notify the police
Whether you’re involved in a minor accident or a major collision, it’s best to alert the police immediately and ask them to file a report. A police report is not only invaluable to the claims process, but it will also ensure that everything is documented accurately while helping to establish who’s at fault.
Record the following information at the scene by taking notes:
- Location, date and time of the accident
- Names, addresses, telephone numbers and license numbers of drivers, passengers and witnesses
- Injuries to anyone involved in the accident
- License plate numbers, vehicle descriptions and damage
Document the accident scene
Use your smartphone to take photos of all vehicles involved, from every angle. CarPics® Photo Appraisals, Plymouth Rock’s easy-to-use photo appraisal tool, lets you submit photos of your car right from your smartphone after submitting your claim. Also, take pictures of the accident scene, noting any hazards, skids marks and damage to the scene.
Why is documenting a car accident important?
Documenting the scene and exchanging information as soon as the accident happens is the best way to protect yourself.
Unfortunately, in some cases people try to claim damage or injuries that weren’t caused by the accident. Other times, years could pass before the other person files a lawsuit against you.
Your insurance company can try to inspect your vehicle then, but you may no longer be in possession of it or you may have already had the damage repaired.
Pictures taken on the day of the accident, well-documented notes and a police report are the best evidence for defending yourself when someone is trying to make a claim that seems inconsistent with the accident.
What to do after a car accident that’s not your fault?
What to do after a minor car accident?
If you are involved in a minor car accident with no injuries or major damage to your vehicle you may choose not to file a claim. If you choose not to file a claim, you should still exchange information with the other driver and then let your car insurance provider know about the incident.
Exchanging information is just in case you or the other driver decides to file a claim at a later date.
Filing a claim for a car accident
Getting into a car accident is stressful enough; filing your claim shouldn’t have to be. That’s why Plymouth Rock has designed our auto claim services* to simplify the claims process and get you back on the road in no time.
Let us manage the entire repair process with our Door to Door Valet Claim Service® — we’ll even arrange a rental car for customers with rental coverage. If you prefer to handle repairs yourself, one of our Crashbusters® vans can meet you almost anywhere, and, in many cases, issue you a check on the spot. Not sure where to get your car repaired? Take advantage of our Repair Shop Finder.
Need help? We’re here for you.
Phone
Online
Home insurance for Connecticut, Massachusetts, new Hampshire, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania
Agent
*Certain discounts, coverages, payment plans, features and benefits are not available in all states and companies.
This page is for informational purposes only. Actual coverage may vary and is subject to the policy issued by your insurer. Restrictions and limitations may apply. Review your policy and consult a licensed insurance professional to learn more about your coverage.