How to Report Motor Vehicle Accidents
- 1). Exchange information with all those involved in the motor vehicle accident. This information includes name, address, phone number, insurance carrier with policy number, driver's license number and license plate number. Make sure each driver involved in the accident provides all information. It's also a good idea to note the physical description of other vehicles in the crash. Also write down details concerning the accident itself. Take pictures if possible.
- 2). Immediately call local law enforcement personnel and report the accident. Officers generally respond in person only if there were injuries resulting from the accident, but make sure to report the accident regardless.
- 3). Contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible, while the details of the accident are still fresh in your mind. Have your insurance policy on hand when communicating with an agent so that there are no misunderstandings concerning coverage. The sooner you speak to your carrier, the less costly the accident is likely to be. Delays make determining causation difficult and settlement among insurers more difficult to negotiate.
- 4). Fill out your accident report form and file it promptly. Whether officers arrive at the scene or not, you must file a state vehicle accident report. You can obtain report forms from police stations or from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles. Check online for downloadable, printable reports. Having a report on file simplifies insurance negotiations and makes filing your claim easier.
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