How to Handle a Car Accident to File a Successful Claim

April 28, 2025

If you’re luck, you may never have to deal with a car accident, but approximately 77% of all drivers will be involved in at least one car accident in their lifetime, with the average driver likely to be involved in three or four car accidents. With this in mind, you need to know how to handle these situations properly to protect your interests and ensure that everyone is safe. Worgess Insurance offers tips on how to handle a car accident if you are ever involved in one.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

You may be overwhelmed with emotions after an accident, so it’s important to take a deep breath and maintain your composure. Check to see if you and anyone in your vehicle are injured. You should remain in your car if at all possible, unless the situation poses an immediate risk.

Ensure Safety

If you can do so safely, try to move your vehicle out of traffic as much as possible to prevent more accidents and to allow the safe flow of traffic. Turn on your hazard light to warn oncoming traffic, if possible.

Call Emergency Services

You should call 911 immediately if there are injuries, major vehicle damage, or a hazardous situation. Even for a minor fender bender, you should call the police to file an accident report.

Exchange Information

You should share and collect information from all involved drivers, including:

  • Full names and contact information
  • Insurance company names and policy numbers
  • Driver’s license numbers
  • License plate numbers
  • Vehicle makes, models, and colors
  • Also, note the exact location and time of the accident

Document the Scene

Take clear photos and videos of any details that may come up during a possible lawsuit or which may be beneficial when filing an insurance claim:

  • Vehicle damage
  • Accident scene (including road signs, signals, weather conditions)
  • Skid marks or debris
  • Injuries, if any

Be sure to write down as many details about what happened while your memory is fresh, as the longer you wait, the more confused you may become.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Be polite but do not admit fault or apologize, even if you think you may be responsible. The fault of the accident will be determined later through an investigation.

Get Witness Information

If there are any third-party witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their accounts of the incident can be valuable in insurance claims or legal proceedings.

Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries may not be immediately apparent (e.g., whiplash, concussion). Be sure to get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible, even if you feel fine.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident promptly to your insurer, providing all the information you compiled at the scene, including the number of the police report.

Keep Records

For your personal records and protection, you should maintain copies of:

  • The accident report
  • Medical reports
  • Repair estimates
  • Any communications with insurance companies or legal representatives

By following these simple guidelines, you can make your auto insurance claim as smooth and painless as possible. Contact Worgess Insurance if you have any questions about your auto insurance claim, or to get the coverage you need.