What To Do If You Get Into A Fender Bender

Even the safest drivers can get into accidents from time to time. Perhaps you're distracted one day, or perhaps another driver causes the incident. Either way, fender benders are the most common types of accidents and you should know what to do if you're involved in one.

Your auto insurance can help cover the expenses after you meet your deductible. But in order to help the claims process along, you'll need to provide your insurer with certain information. Follow these steps if you get into a fender bender so your car can be repaired as soon as possible.

Call for help: Even if the accident is minor, it helps to have a police report on file. Pull the vehicles off the road (so long as they can be driven safely) and call the police. Of course, if anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to ask for medical help.
Note the scene: Your insurance carrier will want to know where the accident occurred, so note the intersection. It may help to take pictures of street signs and/or landmarks. Also, note the date and time of the incident.
Take photos: While you wait for the police to arrive, take photos of the vehicles involved in the incident. Be sure to capture the damage, the license plates and the whole scope of the scene.
Exchange information: You and the other driver(s) will need to exchange information so you can all file claims with your respective insurers. Be sure to collect the other driver's name, phone number, address, email address, insurance provider, auto insurance policy number and driver's license number. You should also take down the make, model and year of the other driver's car, along with the license plate number. Finally, take down the police report number and the names of the responding officers.
File a claim: Call your independent insurance agent to begin the claims process. You'll have to provide the information you've gathered, and you'll likely have to meet with an adjuster sent by your insurer in order to assess the damage. Your insurer will walk you through the process and let you know when it's okay to go ahead and take your car to the shop.

We'll help you get back on the road sooner. Call Miller Insurance Agency at (409) 899-9531 for more information on Beaumont TX auto insurance.

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