When you are involved in an accident, it can often be a very stressful time. Knowing what to do and what to expect can lessen your anxiety and help you avoid costly mistakes. Be prepared ahead of time. Always carry a cell phone, pen, paper, and a camera. Also, print this list and keep it in your glove box.

If you are in an accident:

• Determine if anyone is seriously injured and if they are, call 911 immediately.
• Immediately take a mental picture of the other driver's appearance and demeanor. Drunk drivers and those without a valid driver's license or valid insurance may decide to flee the scene.
• If there are no serious injuries, move the cars to the side of the road and out of the way of traffic.
• Turn on hazard lights if possible.
• Exchange information with the other driver. Be sure to get their name, address, phone number, insurance company policy number, driver license number, and license plate number. Look at their actual license and insurance card to ensure the information is accurate. If the driver does not own the car, obtain the owner's information.
• If there are witnesses, try to obtain their contact information. Witnesses can help corroborate your side of the story.
• Make a written description of the other driver, their car (make, model, color, & year), damage to the vehicles, the weather, road conditions, the nearest cross streets, time of day, and the accident (what actually happened).
• Photograph the accident scene, all vehicles involved, the damage, and the other driver if possible.
• Show concern about everyone's well being.
• DO NOT tell the other driver or the police that the accident was your fault.
• Consider filing an accident report with law enforcement, even if there are no injuries. This allows official documentation of the accident in the case that the other driver changes their story. It also helps speed up the claims process.
• Call your favorite body shop from GreatBodyShops.com. We can set up a tow if necessary, arrange a rental car, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf.