If you’re looking to get your automobile insured, click here for a free California auto insurance quote.

All those things can make it hard to think clearly and respond properly. And if there are injuries, the stress can be amplified. But that’s when a clear head and quick action are really crucial. Here are some tips for getting through an accident with a minimum of hassle and headaches.

1. After an accident, getting help for the injured is always the first priority.
2. Regardless of the circumstances, report the accident to the police.
3. Record the name, address and phone number of the other driver. Write down the make and license number of all vehicles involved. You’ll want to get as much information as you can about the other driver’s insurance agent, policy and insurance company.
4. Don’t forget to collect the names, addresses and phone numbers of passengers and witnesses. Since many cases end up with the parties blaming each other, third-party witnesses can be important. Don’t hesitate to approach anyone who may have seen the crash.
5. Be careful of what you say. Don’t talk about fault; even casual remarks can be used in court.
6. Examine the damage carefully. Take photos if possible, particularly if the accident occurred on private property, such as a parking lot.
7. Without being overly suspicious, observe the other driver’s actions. If the other driver later claims to have a serious injury, what you notice could be important.
8. Stay calm.
9. Notify our office immediately at 805-781-6336. If the accident occurs after hours, please refer to the my policy section of our website for 24-hour claims hotlines for our insurance companies.

Remember, these incidents are the reason you have insurance in the first place. We know that no car wreck is ever minor if you’re involved. We’re here so that you can relax a little, knowing that Engle & Associates are on your side doing everything possible to ease your stress and give you peace of mind.

Backing accident 1

A driver reported backing his Ford pickup into a fire hydrant in a commercial warehouse area with a large paved parking lot. The resulting damage and expenses included:

- Fire hydrant replacement, including cost of installation

- Damage to the parking lot caused by the sinkhole created by water escaping from the damaged hydrant. Did you know that a six inch water main connected to a fire hydrant can flow between 1000 and 1500 gallons of water per minute?!?

- Bill for hundreds of thousands of gallons of water.

Backing accident 2

- Creation of a large lake in the remaining parking lot, requiring special handling, pumping, and resulting in possible additional damage to structures.

- Cost of business interruption due to lack of access to parking lot until repairs are made.

- Extra security to block off damaged area to prevent other accidents.

Backing accident 3

ARE YOUR CURRENT INSURANCE LIMITS ENOUGH?

Accidents can cause a domino effect, resulting in unanticipated damages and expenses. Without adequate liability coverage, you could be putting your assets and future earnings at risk. An Umbrella Policy is an inexpensive option to better protect you from worst-case scenarios like the one above. The average personal umbrella policy costs less than a video rental or latte per week! Call my office for a FREE coverage checkup today! (805)781-6337 or toll free (877) 364-5380.