Good drivers master understanding of traffic regulations and remain alert and cautious behind the wheel to keep themselves and all who share the road as safe as possible. However, if you’ve ever been involved in a motor vehicle collision, you likely learned firsthand how even a minor fender bender could lead to a very complicated aftermath when it comes to navigating the auto insurance system. Therefore, it’s typically beneficial to research steps to take following an accident before you actually need to take those steps.
Laws that govern such matters vary by state. It can be quite confusing trying to determine whether you should call your insurance agent or the agent associated with the party deemed to have caused your accident. If you suffered injury, you may have other concerns beyond who should pay for damage to your vehicle, such as how to recover the wages you lose by taking time off work in recovery.
Getting the facts
It’s the responsibility of the person who wrecked into your car to notify his or her insurance company about the accident, but it can be very stressful waiting and wondering if he or she followed through on that process. There is no reason you can’t place a call to that insurance company as well. In fact, there are several things you can do at the accident scene (provided your injuries did not require an immediate trip to the hospital) to be proactive, such as the following:
- Record contact information and statements from any witnesses in the vicinity.
- Photograph the accident scene, including specific vehicle damage, any debris lying in the road and any other visual evidence that may help substantiate your claim.
- Write down the personal contact information and insurance information of the driver who hit you.
- Access the WreckCheck App or other smartphone applications to obtain help discerning what information is most important.
Once you compile necessary information, you can call the other driver’s insurance company to report that you were in a collision with one of its policyholders. It’s generally best to avoid placing blame or mentioning anything other than basic facts regarding where, when and with whom the accident took place.
Seeking full recovery
The insurance process is highly complex and often stressful. In addition to reporting an accident and filing an insurance claim, you may also be considering pursuing a personal injury claim in a civil court if another motorist’s negligence caused you injury. Knowing where to turn for support when facing exorbitant medical expenses, job issues and insurance complications is key to getting the help you need in a timely manner with as little stress as possible. After all, remaining calm and getting plenty of rest is crucial for successful recovery.
Many people in Illinois turn to experienced personal injury attorneys for assistance in all aspects related to motor vehicle collisions. In fact, an attorney can contact insurance agencies on your behalf and can address other issues, such as making sure you are provided the medical care you need and obtain maximum compensation for all damages you have suffered.