Every driver at some time or the other gets involved into some type of car accident. It’s essential to be let the other vehicle driver know your details so that they can contact you later. If you just drive away from the spot after an accident, although it is small, it is considered as a hit and run case. It might be that you hit a car when there is no one inside, still it is necessary to leave behind your details so they can get in touch with you. On the other hand, if the accident is of a serious nature, then your first priority should be to get someone inform the incident 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.
Immediately exchange your insurance information with the car?s driver. Make certain that you provide all details like phone numbers, names, and addresses so that both parties can contact each other. This is the reason why it is essential to always carry your insurance proof in the car. In case you carry them with you, then you might have to give it to the other party afterwards.
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.
Once you have called your claims representative, taken pictures, and exchanged information you are usually free to leave the scene. By now a police officer would have arrived to help sort out the mess and tow trucks may be taking away your vehicles. Sometimes the damage is light enough so that tow trucks aren?t necessary. Even so, it may be weeks or months until you get a check in the mail, so you may have to initially pay for the repairs yourself at first.
The fund you receive is decided by the lowest fixing quote provided to the insurance company. If they total your car then you will get the ?blue book value? for your vehicle. The ?blue book value? is your car?s standard price set after taking into account the age, state, and model of the car. If you had made any alterations in your car, then you will not be paid for that.
Graham McKenzie is the content syndication coordinator for Carinsurancesa.co.za. South Arica?s leading car insurance portal.
