If you've ever been involved in an accident, you know how stressful it can be. Most people are flooded with a mix of emotions and worries. You'll be concerned about everyone's safety and anxious about your vehicle. You might be angry at the other driver. Then there's the fear about what impact the accident will have on your driving record and your insurance. All those things can make it hard to think clearly and respond properly. And if there are injuries, the stress can be amplified. But that's when a clear head and quick action are really crucial.  

Here are some tips for getting through an accident with a minimum of hassle and headaches.

• After an accident, getting help for the injured is always the first priority.

• Regardless of the circumstances, report the accident to the police.

• Record the name, address and phone number of the other driver. Write down the make and license number of all vehicles involved. You'll want to get as much information as you can about the other driver's insurance agent, policy and insurance company. Print our Accident Self Help Guide, and keep it in your glove box for easy retrieval.  In case of an accident this guide will prompt you to fill in the information that matters most.

• Don't forget to collect the names, addresses and phone numbers of passengers and witnesses. Since many cases end up with the parties blaming each other, third-party witnesses can be important. Don't hesitate to approach anyone who may have seen the crash.

• Be careful of what you say. Don't talk about fault; even casual remarks can be used in court.

• Notify your insurance agent immediately. The faster we get information, the faster we can act. Discuss the accident only with your agent and, of course, with the police.

• Examine the damage carefully. Take photos if possible, particularly if the accident occurred on private property, such as a parking lot.

• Without being overly suspicious, observe the other driver's actions. If the other driver later claims to have a serious injury, what you notice could be important. 

• Consider purchasing a One-Time-Use camera next time you go to the grocery.  Keep this camera in your car's glove box, and use it to take photos of the scene.  These photographs could easily become an important witness to what actually occurred.

• Stay calm.

Remember, these incidents are the reason you have insurance in the first place. We realize no auto accident is ever minor when you're involved. We're here so you can relax a little, doing everything possible to ease your stress and provide you with peace of mind.

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Please Note: The information contained in this Web site is provided solely as a source of general  information and resource.  It is a not a statement of contract and coverage may not apply in all areas or circumstances.  For a complete description of coverages, always read the insurance policy, including all endorsements.