No one likes to be in a vehicle accident. Many times, our first instinct is to try to minimize the situation. But clear thinking and attention to detail can save you a lot of headache, a lot of time and a lot of money as you navigate the insurance and car repair process.
We often have customers who were in a minor accident and they didn't get enough information for the insurance companies to determine who was at fault. In some cases these people had to make a claim on their own insurance policy, even though they really may not have been at fault.
If you are in a minor accident, the following things should be done:
- Move your vehicle out of traffic where it is safe.
- Check for any injuries to yourself or your passengers. Even minor collisions can cause injuries.
- Exchange information with the other driver; take pictures of driver license, proof of insurance card and registration.
- Take pictures of any damage on your vehicle and the other vehicle including the other vehicle's license plate.
- Anytime you are involved in a traffic accident or collision with any other object, whether that may be another vehicle, pedestrian, building or bicyclist, Colorado State law requires all drivers involved to give their name, address and vehicle registration information to all other persons who are involved. This means you must show your driver's license to anyone who asks to see it. In all cases, except for times when an "Accident Alert" has been declared, you must stop and report the crash to the local police agency by calling your local district police station or 911.
- If there are any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers.
- While the details are still fresh in your mind, make a diagram of the accident. It can be done on a website called accident sketch.
It is not uncommon to have a vehicle waiting for a week to be repaired because the insurance companies are trying to determine liability. The more information and documentation you can give to the insurance companies, the more quickly and accurately the claim will be processed.
Download our Minor Accident Tips Guide and keep a copy in each of your vehicles. If you have any questions, contact us. We've been serving the Denver area for more than 30 years.
