How Do You Correctly Report a Car Accident for Insurance?

All drivers get involved in some type of car accident at least once. Therefore It is very necessary to be acquainted with the basics of providing your information to the other driver so that they know how to later get in touch with you. Although, the accident is small, you must not simply drive away, else it might be called a ?hit and run?. It might be possible that you knock an empty car but even then it is essential to exchange your information with the owner or driver of the car so that they ay contact you. In a serious accident, your first objective should be to ask someone to call at 911.
Most people forget the first step, which is to not admit mistake. Even though you know that the car accident was caused sue to your mistake, it is suggested that you don?t confess it to the other driver. Because if later, it is proved to be the other party?s mistake, you?d still be compelled to bear the expenses because you initially owned up the mistake. You must stay cool and tactfully manage the state of affairs so that everyone gets back to their work.
Exchange insurance information immediately with the driver of the other car, or cars. Make sure names, phone numbers, and addresses are included so you can get a hold of each other. This is why it is so important to bring proof of your insurance with you in your car. If you don?t have it with you, you might just have to give it to them later.
If both the parties agree to wait then you can call and ask your claims representative to arrive and have a look at the damage. This is not always possible, but it is important that you call the claims representative as immediately as possible. If your claims representative manages to arrive at the spot, then he will take photos if you are present, fill up the insurance claims form, have a talk with the other party/ parties involved and may be even talk to some of the eye-witness of the accidents.
Take pictures of the damage and surrounding area before any of the cars are moved. With so many people having picture phones now-a-days, this is fairly easy. Take pictures of all the damage to all of the cars, and any other pictures that might help describe the scene.
You are mostly free to go after you have informed your claims representative, clicked photos, and swapped information. A police officer must have also arrived by now to inspect the situation, get the mess sorted and have tow trucks take your vehicles. The tow trucks may not be required when the accident is of a light nature. After all this, it may take some weeks or a month till your receive your claim check by mail. So, the entire initial repair costs have to be borne by you.
The check you get is settled on by the lowest quote for repair provided to the insurer. You may get the blue book price for your car, if your vehicle is totaled up. The blue book value is actually a set of prices that is determined by taking into account several factors like the age, model, and condition of the car. Any modifications made by you in the car will not be reimbursed for by the insurance companies.

Article Source: http://www.articledirectorylive.com

Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.

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