Ten Things To Do If You Are In A Motor Vehicle Collision

BY CHANDLER SURRENCY | HOPKINS & HUEBNER, P.C. | DES MOINES OFFICE

1.    Check on others involved in the accident.  If it is safe to exit your vehicle and you are physically able to do so, get out and check on others involved in the collision.

2.    Call the police.  Provide the location where the accident occurred and notify the dispatcher if there are any injuries.  When the officer arrives, note his or her name and badge number.  Once it becomes available, obtain a copy of the accident report.

3.    Do not admit fault.  Refrain from making statements that could be interpreted as admissions of fault to police officers, other emergency personnel, other driver(s), or witnesses.  Provide only the facts about how the collision occurred.

4.    Exchange information with other driver(s).  Record pertinent information from all individuals involved.  This includes name, address, telephone number, and email address.  Determine who owns the other vehicle(s) involved, and gather insurance information including insurance company name, telephone number, and policy number.

5.    Obtain information from witnesses.  Record the name, address, telephone number, email address, and a physical description of all witnesses.  Determine what each of the witnesses observed.

6.    Take photographs.  Take pictures of the accident scene, including the roadway and location of the vehicles.  Be sure to note if the vehicles were moved after the accident.  Also photograph the property damage to the vehicles and any other property involved.

7.    Do not post about the collision on social media.  Refrain from posting photographs or commentary about the accident on social media.  If a lawsuit is filed about the accident, social media information is discoverable.

8.    Call your insurance company.  Notify your insurance company of the accident, even if you were not at fault.  Be prepared to provide the insurance company with information about the collision, other driver(s), and witnesses.  Be aware that your call may be recorded.

9.    If you are on the job, follow your employer’s procedures.  Familiarize yourself with your employer’s procedures for employee involvement in an automobile accident, and follow those steps.  Notify the appropriate company representative and cooperate in any investigation.

10.    Do not sign documents without legal advice.  If you are asked to sign any document that could be interpreted as a waiver of your rights, contact an attorney.  Such documents include settlement agreement, releases, or the endorsement of a check made payable to you from another driver or insurance company.