Auto Insurance and Accidents: 2 Common Questions
By Terria Gallagher
It’s time to talk about auto insurance.
A first common question that comes to mind is “I’m in an auto accident. Now what?”
Here are some steps to follow from Progressive Insurance if you are in a car accident:
1. Stay calm & check for injuries: Make sure you and your passengers are OK, as well as the other driver and their passengers.
2. Move your vehicle out of traffic:
If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road.
3. Call the police:
Dial 911 and wait for the police to arrive.
4. Don't admit fault:
Provide the police with the facts of what happened — do not admit fault or point blame.
5. Exchange info & take pictures:
Swap contact and insurance info with the other driver and take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and others.
6. Start the claims process:
File a claim with your insurance company or the other driver's insurance company, depending on the details of the accident.
Towing and Rental Cars
After the police have completed their report, if your vehicle is drivable you will be able to leave the scene of the accident. If your vehicle is not drivable, a tow truck will be called and will transport your vehicle to their facility.
If a rental car is needed, you can call a rental car company and make arrangements for a rental. If you carry Rental Car coverage on your policy, this coverage will take care of the rental fee for the period of time and the amount stated on your policy. In order to utilize this coverage, you must turn in a claim to your carrier. You may be saying “What if I’m not at fault?” You can rely on the other party to turn in the claim to their carrier or you may contact their carrier and turn in the claim. Often times, the other party’s carrier must have a statement from their insured, review the police report, and determine fault before they can approve a rental car or any payment for your damaged property. In this case, it’s better to turn in the claim to your own carrier and let the two insurance carriers subrogate.
A second common question is “Am I covered under my car insurance policy if I hit a deer?”
If the specific vehicle in the accident carries Comprehensive or Other than Collision, the damage to your vehicle will be covered, minus the stated deductible amount on your declaration sheet.
If you are not sure about your auto insurance coverage, our team is ready to assist you. Contact us today at 800-832-4689.
Source: https://www.progressive.com/answers/what-to-do-after-car-accident/
About Terria
Terria Gallagher
Cubs Fan, Wife, Mother and Grandmother and Insurance Agent
Direct Phone - 913-754-3835
I have 17 years of experience in the insurance industry. When not working I enjoy attending my son's sporting events from football to basketball to baseball. I also love spending time with my 2 sons, 1 daughter and granddaughters. I have 3 fur babies (dogs) that keep me hopping. I also enjoy working in the yard and refurbishing furniture. My favorite vacations are anywhere with a beach.