In the event of a car accident, it is important to exchange information with the other driver involved. The following information should be exchanged according to the Insurance Information Institute:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Drivers license and license plate number
- Type, color, and model of vehicle
- Location of accident
It is recommended to avoid discussing fault when exchanging information with the other driver. When filing an insurance claim, the adjuster reviewing the claim will determine who is at fault based on an inspection of the vehicles/property damaged, information provided by the parties involved in the accident, and any supporting documentation, like the police report or photographs from the scene.
Other information that should be collected after an accident includes:
- Names, phone numbers, mailing addresses, and email addresses of the other driver(s), all vehicle occupants, and witnesses
- Location of the incident
- Photos of the scene and all vehicles involved, including tag numbers
- Insurance information from others involved: company name, policy number, and phone number
- Police report number, phone number, officer name, and badge number
It is also recommended to take pictures of the accident and obtain the names of eyewitnesses. If the police arrive, get the name and badge number of all responding officers and ask where you can obtain a copy of the accident report. If there were any witnesses to the accident, take down their names and their contact information as well.
It is important to report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. When reporting the claim, you can start the claim process immediately at the scene and add details when things are calmer. You can file a claim online, use the insurers mobile app, or call them.
