What to Do in the Event of an Accident

Stay as calm as possible.
Stop your car and find out if anyone is injured.
Call the police or highway patrol. Tell them if people were hurt and the types of injuries.
Comfort the injured while taking care not to cause additional injury until appropriate medical personnel arrive.
Try to protect the accident scene. Take reasonable steps to protect your car from further damage, such as setting up flares, getting the car off the road, and calling a tow truck.
Ask the investigating officer where you can obtain a copy of the police report. You will probably need it when you submit your claim to your insurance company.
If necessary, have the car towed to a repair shop. But remember, your insurance company probably will want to have an adjuster inspect it and appraise the damage before you order repair work done.
Keep a pad and pencil in your glove compartment.
If you run into an unattended vehicle or object, try to find the owner. If you can’t leave a note containing your name, address, and phone number. Record the details of the accident.
Notify your insurance agent about the accident immediately.
Don’t sign any document unless it is for the police or your insurance agent.
Be polite, but don’t tell the other drivers or the police that the accident was your fault even if you think it was. Likewise, do not accuse the other drivers of being at fault at this time. Limit your discussion of the accident to the insurance agent and the police. Always be truthful.
If you have a camera handy, and it is safe to do so, it may be helpful to photograph the accident scene.
If possible, do not leave the accident scene before the police officers and other drivers do.

Please print our “What To Do in an Accident” checklist for your car.

To contact the IOA Personal Lines Department, call (800) 243-6899.