What to Do After a Car Accident: A Step-by-Step Guide from Your Insurance Experts

Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming, but knowing what to do in the aftermath can make all the difference. At Looker Wolfe & Gephart, we’re committed to helping our policyholders navigate these situations with confidence. Here’s a clear, actionable guide to handling the moments after a crash and filing your auto claim smoothly with your insurance company.

Immediate Steps After a Crash

When a collision happens, your first priority is safety and gathering key information. Here’s what to do:

1. Stop and Stay Safe: Pull over immediately and as close to the crash site as possible. Only move your vehicle if it’s blocking traffic or if a first responder instructs you to do so.
2. Call for Help: If the accident is more than a minor fender-bender, dial 911 right away. For less severe incidents, you may not need emergency services, but always assess the situation carefully.
3. Keep It Simple: When speaking about the crash, stick to the facts and only discuss it with the investigating officer. Avoid pointing fingers or admitting fault—it’s best to let the professionals sort it out.
4. Exchange Information: While waiting for help to arrive, swap details with the other driver(s). Be sure to collect:
   • Their name and phone number
   • Driver’s license number
   • Insurance company name and phone number
   • Policy effective dates
5. Document the Scene: Gather additional details to strengthen your claim:
   • Names of all drivers and passengers involved
   • Make, model, and license plate numbers of all vehicles
   • Names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses
   • Photos of the crash scene and vehicle damage
   • Names and badge numbers of first responders
6. Unoccupied Vehicle? If you hit a parked car and can’t find the owner, leave a note on their windshield with your name and phone number.

Filing Your Claim with Your Insurance Company

Once the scene is handled and you’ve received any necessary medical attention, it’s time to start the claims process. Here’s how it typically works with an insurance company:

1. Report the Claim: Contact our agency or your insurance company directly to file your claim as soon as possible.
2. Assignment and Contact: Your claim will be assigned to a claims adjuster by the next business day, and they’ll reach out within 24 hours to get the ball rolling.
3. Review Your Options: The adjuster will guide you through the next steps, including:
   • Getting an estimate from a repair shop of your choice
   • Using the insurance company’s preferred repair shop list if you need a recommendation
   • Opting for electronic claims payment for faster processing
4. Inspection (If Needed): For significant damage, an appraiser will be assigned to inspect your vehicle right away.
5. Estimate Review: If you’ve gotten an estimate, the adjuster will review it with you, negotiate an agreed repair price with the shop, and issue payment (minus your deductible).
6. Approval Before Repairs: Don’t start repairs until everything is approved to avoid complications.
7. Complete the Repairs: Once approved, have the repairs done and settle the bill with the repair shop.

We’re Here to Help

At Looker Wolfe & Gephart, we partner with trusted insurance companies to ensure you feel secure, even when the unexpected happens. Have questions? Reach out to us—we’re here to make life better when bad things happen.

Stay safe on the roads!