Accident Checklist For Your Glove Compartment

Bill Allen | November 27, 2017 | Car Accidents

Be prepared:  Keep this checklist in your glove compartment along with an instant camera if you do not have a smart phone.

Immediately after the accident:

  • Your immediate safety needs attention.  If there is potential for risk to you, please stay in your car.
  • Move to a safe location if your vehicle is creating a safety hazard or obstructing traffic.
  • Never leave the scene of an accident.

Once it is SAFE to do so: 

  •  Assess the well-being of others.  If there are injuries, call 911 to get help to the scene.
  • Once the authorities arrive, follow any instructions that the law enforcement gives you.
  • Many people call their insurance company, especially if their coverage offers emergency towing arrangements.
  • Note the name of the tow company, and the place where your vehicle is being towed.
  • Be courteous and polite, but do not admit fault.
  • Provide your name and insurance information to the police.
  • Document the names and contact information for any witnesses to the accident.

At the scene:

  • With a smart phone or camera, photograph the following:
  • License plates of involved vehicles.
  • Damaged areas of your vehicle, other vehicles or property.
  • Objects at the scene such as skid marks, position in lane, street signs or other landmarks to identify the accident location.
  • Anything that might have been a factor in the accident, such as obscured traffic signs, etc.

Make note of the following, that may be asked for later:

  • Time, date and location.
  • Weather, visibility and traffic conditions.
  • Description of the accident.
  • Description of any injuries and damage.
  • Details of police or emergency responder involvement.
  • Adjuster’s name/phone/claim numbers.

Keep receipts for anything related to this accident! Then, please call us 24/7 at the Allen Law Firm, a Personal Injury firm with offices located in Gainesville or Ocala, Florida.  We have a team that includes staff that were previously licensed adjusters.  We are here to help!  Call Gainesville (352)331-6789 or Ocala (352)351-3558.  We also have a toll-free number: (877) ALLEN-LAW