Auto Accident Hot Sheet Checklist
Steps to Take Before Contacting Auto Insurance and Filing a Claim
Getting into an auto accident is no fun. With the heart racing and nerves on end, it becomes difficult to remember exactly what to do and what types of information to collect before contacting the auto insurance and filing an auto claim.
Auto Insurance: What Is an Auto Insurance Claim?
In the case of an auto accident, an auto insurance claim is a communication between the driver and his or her auto insurance that damage to the driver’s vehicle has occurred.
Auto Insurance: Tips for Being Prepared for an Auto Accident
Though most drivers do not often find themselves in an auto accident, they should still take the following measures to be prepared should an auto accident occur:
- Keep an auto insurance information card in both glove compartment and wallet
- Keep a copy of the Auto Accident Hot Sheet Checklist in glove compartment
- Keep two pens and a pad of paper in glove compartment
Auto Accident Hot Sheet Checklist: Steps to Take in the Event of an Auto Accident
- Take a Moment to Calm Down. When the accident has just occurred, sit for a minute of so and take a couple of deep breaths.
- Determine Damage and/or Injuries. Calmly step out of the car to inspect for damage and/or injuries. If it appears that injuries may require medical attention, call 911 immediately.
- Determine Location. Look up at the street signs and determine the location of the auto accident. Write down the location and the nearest major intersection.
- Obtain Auto Insurance and Contact Information. After inspecting the auto for damage and ensuring all parties are uninjured, exchange auto insurance and personal contact information.
- Collect Vehicle Information. Write down the make and model of the car. Also write down the license plate number and vehicle identification number (VIN) located on the bottom of the driver’s side windshield.
- Do Not Discuss Auto Accident. Unless the auto accident is minor or fault is obvious, avoid discussing fault with the other driver. Discussions regarding the auto accident should be kept between the driver and the auto insurance, or the driver and police officer if the police are called to the scene.
- Contact the Police. Unless the accident is minor, it may be a good idea to contact the police. A police officer will arrive on the scene of the auto accident, hear both sides, and file a legal accident report. This accident report could come in handy for determination of fault at a later date.
- Take Pictures. Using a mobile phone or digital camera, snap pictures of the auto accident scene from various angles. This could help determine fault at a later date, and could aid in the auto claims process.
- File Auto Insurance Claim. As soon as possible, contact auto insurance to file a claim. Typically this is done by phone. The driver can even file the claim at the scene of the accident; and if a police officer is present, the officer can speak to the auto insurance as well and clarify if necessary.
Drivers are supposed to feel safe in their cars, so it’s a major shock to hear the dreaded “thud,” the crumple of metal, and to see their car smoking. That’s why it’s important to be prepared so the driver knows exactly what steps to take in the unfortunate case of an auto accident.
See related articles, “How to File a Claim With Auto Insurance," ”Understanding Auto Insurance Liability,” and "Auto Insurance: Is Collision Coverage Necessary?"
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