Auto Accident Do's and Dont's

Here's the bad news — the average American will have at least three auto accidents in their lifetime. (1)

Here's the good news — most accidents are not fatal.

Knowing how to handle an automobile accident can help you and your family through a stressful experience.

So, what should you do at the scene of a car accident?

1. Stop immediately, but don't obstruct traffic.
2. Document the scene of the accident. If it is safe to do so, take photos of the damage to both vehicles before you move them. If the accident is minor and it will not put anyone in jeopardy, move the cars to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights if needed.
3. Stay calm and assist the injured. Even if you think you are “OK,” your body can be pumped up with adrenaline, which can mask pain. After the adrenaline wears off, you may realize you were injured.
4. Collect information of the people involved. Get the name, phone number, and address of the other party including driver's license number, insurance company, policy number and claim phone number, as well as contact information of witnesses and injured persons. 
5. Collect information of all cars involved. Get the make and model of the vehicles and license plate numbers.
6. Call the police. Without a police report,  it may be difficult to convince your insurance company you were not at fault, jeopardizing your ability to be paid in full for your injuries and damages.
7. Notify your insurance company as soon as possible after your accident. Give your insurance company as much complete and accurate information about the accident. The sooner you get complete information to them, the sooner your claim can be processed.

What should you NOT DO if you are involved in a car accident?

1. DO NOT take responsibility for the accident. Avoid saying anything that could sound like the accident was your fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” to the other party could be taken as an "admission of fault." Remain courteous and consistent in your version of the event.
2. DO NOT leave the scene of the accident. Especially if there are injuries or you could face criminal charges for a hit-and-run.
3. DO NOT discuss your accident on social media. Better yet, don’t talk to anyone about the accident other than your own insurance company and the police.

Questions or concerns regarding a claim?
Get your insurance agent involved! At Connecticut Insurance Exchange, writing a policy is only the beginning. We are committed to supporting our clients through all aspects of the insurance transaction — including accidents and claims.

If you have questions regarding the claims process, have trouble reaching an insurance company representative, or need a partner to advocate on your behalf, we're here to serve. That's Connecticut Insurance Exchange.

(1) More than 2.4 million people were injured and nearly 35,000 people died in 6.2 million crashes nationwide in 2015, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Adult drivers in the U.S. will file a car collision claim approximately once every 18 years according to carinsurance.com.