IF YOU ARE INVOLVED IN A MOTOR VEHICLE ACCIDENT:

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW...


  • Call the Police!!

    • No matter how "nice" or "scared" the other person is, never "just exchange information." This has been known to backfire!

  • Do not move the vehicles involved.

    The Police Officer may not be able to document who is at fault if the vehicles are moved before he gets there.

  • If you are injured, don't refuse medical attention.

    Your injury could magnify the next day.

  • Request a tow truck if needed, or have the Police assign one.

    Get the name and address of the towing company and them where to tow your vehicle. Your best choice is an auto body shop. This choice will prevent you from having to tow your vehicle again at a later date and will avoid additional tow charges and possible storage charges. The body shop will usually pay the tow operator's charges on your behalf and get reimbursement from the insurer at a later date.

  • Ask the Police Officer in charge for a preliminary accident report before you leave the scene.

    Even if not complete, it contains valuable information that can be used by you or the auto body shop of your choice to assist you with the insurance claim. If you are unable to obtain a copy at the scene, the Police Department will usually have one available within a few days. Click below for an accident report form.

    ACCIDENT FORM

    (More information about HOW TO CHOOSE AN AUTO BODY SHOP)