Frequently asked questions
Should I call the Police?
Although law enforcement officers in many locations may not respond to accidents unless there are injuries, drivers should file a state vehicle accident report (sometimes called a blue form), which is available at police stations and often on the Department of Motor Vehicles web site as a downloadable file. A police report often helps insurance companies speed up the claims process.
Should I go to the Doctor?
You should take care of your injuries immediately. You could be injured and not know it. Your health is the top priority and any delay in seeking medical attention for an injury sustained in a car accident could be used against you by the insurance company.
Should I call my own insurance company?
Whether the accident is your fault or not, Call your agent or insurance company’s 800 number immediately and report the claim. This can save you a lot of time later waiting for your claim to be processed.
Should I give an oral statement to the other drivers insurance company?
Always ask if a conversation is being recorded. Never give an oral statement without your attorney’s permission or presence. You may however give a statement to a police officer at the scene of the accident.
Do I need to take photo's of the accident?
Take photos of the damages to all vehicles involved. Take photos of the scene including any skid marks. Take photos of any visible injuries.
What rights do I have?
You have the right to be fairly compensated for your injuries and loss.
You have the right to recover both past an future medical expenses.
You have the right to a percentage of your lost wages if you are employed.
You have the right to recover money damages for your pain, suffering, and physical impairment.
What am I entitled to?
- Medical Bills / Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Out of Pocket Expenses
- Property Damage
What information should I obtain from the scene?
- Full name, address, date of birth, phone number and driver’s license number of all parties involved.
- Vehicle information, such as year\make\model & plate number of all vehicles involved.
- Insurance information for all parties involved, such as name, phone number, policy number & insured’s name.
- Actual location and time of the accident.
- Police officers name, badge number and report number.
- Witness name, address and phone number.
- Photos of the damages to all vehicles involved.
- Photos of the scene including any skid marks.
- Photos of your injuries.
- Draw a diagram of the accident.
- Draw the positions of all the vehicles involved including before, during and after the accident.