What to do if you are involved in an Auto Collision

Knowing what to do if you are involved in a collision can save lives and also make the claims process easier.

1. Stop your car and find out if anyone is injured.
2. Call the police or highway patrol. Tell them how many people were hurt and the types of injuries. The police will notify the nearest medical unit.
3. Cover injured people with a blanket to keep them warm.
4. Try to protect the collision scene. Take reasonable steps to protect your car from further damage, such as setting up flares, getting the car off the road and calling a tow truck.
5. Ask the investigating officer where you can obtain a copy of the police report. You will probably need it when you submit your claim to your insurance company.
6. If necessary, have the car towed to a repair shop. But remember, your insurance company probably will want to have an adjuster inspect it and appraise the damage before you order repair work done.
7. Make notes. Keep a pad and pencil in your glove compartment. Write down:
   the names and addresses of all drivers and passengers involved in the accident
   • License plate numbers
   • The make and model of each car
   • Driver's license numbers
   • Insurance identifications
   • The names and addresses of witnesses
   • The names and badge numbers of police officers or other emergency personnel
     
8. If you run into an unattended vehicle or object, try to find the owner. If you can't, leave a note containing your name, address and phone number. Record the details of the collision.

What should I do if I am having trouble settling my auto claim?

If you are not satisfied with how your claim is being handled, there are steps you can take.

Let your agent or company representative know that you are unhappy.

If the agent or representative is unable to solve your problem, get the name and phone number of the head of the insurer's claims department. Your insurance company may also have a consumer complaint department that can help.

1. Be prepared to support your case.
   Send documents and a letter explaining why you are not satisfied and make sure you have the figures to back up your argument. Be certain to include your address, claim number, day and evening phone numbers and any other important identifying information.
2. Review your auto insurance policy.
   Most companies offer either arbitration or appraisal services to help settle differences and disputes. Your insurance policy will explain these options.
3. Contact your state insurance department.
   Explain the reasons for the disagreement to a consumer services representative at the department.
4. Contact an arbitrator to hear your case.
   An independent arbitrator with experience in insurance matters can decide if the settlement you were offered is fair. Your insurance company may suggest an arbitrator or you can get your own from the American Arbitration Association at (212) 484-4000 (or http://www.adr.org).
5. Consult an attorney.
   As a last resort, consult an attorney who specializes in auto insurance. Each state’s bar association offers a free legal referral service, which will give you names of qualified candidates. Attorneys work either on an hourly rate or on a contingency basis, depending on the type of case. Get the attorney's fee structure in writing. You can remain current on the progress of your claim by requesting that you receive copies from your attorney of all correspondence. Your attorney must have your agreement before committing to any settlement.

After your claim has been settled, take time to re-evaluate your auto insurance coverage to make sure you have adequate protection to cover you against any future damage or liability claims.

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