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A Step-by-Step Checklist: What to Do After an Auto Accident

by benpage1974 | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks

Being involved in an auto accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. It’s crucial to know what steps to take immediately after an accident to ensure all involved’s safety and facilitate a smooth claims process.

Immediately After the Accident

Assess Injuries: Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is severely hurt, avoid unnecessary movement and ask someone to call 911.
Seek Safety: If your vehicle is in a dangerous spot and is drivable, move it to a safe location. If not, exit the vehicle and guide your passengers to a safe place. Turn on your hazard lights and use road flares from your emergency kit to alert other drivers.
Call Emergency Services: Regardless of the accident’s severity, contact the police. This is legally required in many states, and the accident report can help during the claims process.
Stay on the Scene: Do not leave the accident site until help arrives and you’ve completed all necessary steps.
Exchange Information: Once everyone is safe, exchange information with the other driver(s), including:
Full name and contact info
Insurance company and policy number
Driver’s license and license plate
Vehicle make and model
Accident location
Avoid discussing fault during the information exchange.
Document the Accident:
Gather essential documentation for your insurance company:
Take pictures of the scene, vehicles, and any injuries
Record the names and contact information of all parties and witnesses
Obtain a copy of the police report and the responding officers’ information
Initiate the Claims Process:

Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Ensure you have the right coverage and sufficient limits to handle potential expenses.

Pre-Accident Preparation:

Being prepared before an accident is crucial. Consider the following:

Review and update your insurance coverage regularly
Ensure you have life, disability, and health insurance policies in place
Always wear your seatbelt and encourage passengers to do the same
Keep an emergency kit in your trunk

Final Thoughts

Navigating an auto accident can be overwhelming, but by following the steps outlined above and having a trusted insurance partner like Page, you can get through it with confidence. Remember, the team at Page is always here to help you with all your insurance needs, from selecting the right coverage to guiding you through the claims process.

Consider bookmarking this article on your phone or even printing it out and keeping a copy in your glove box for easy reference in the unfortunate event of an accident. Being prepared and having a reliable insurance partner like Page can make all the difference when dealing with the unexpected. Stay safe and drive responsibly!

Ben Page, a Business Development specialist with over 20 years in the insurance industry, is an expert in Property & Casualty, Life, Health, and Disability insurance. Ben is licensed in all 50 states and dedicated to empowering clients with insider knowledge and making insurance more accessible. Passionate about client-centric service, he has helped build several successful insurance agencies. Ben enjoys Jeeps, Rock and Roll, cheese, movies, and spending time with his wife, three kids, and their golden doodle when not working.

The Real Cost of Driving Without Insurance: Why It’s Not Worth the Risk

by benpage1974 | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks

Driving without insurance is extremely risky and can have severe financial and legal consequences. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of maintaining auto insurance coverage, particularly for Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming residents. We will also explain why having at least 300K in liability coverage is recommended and consider an umbrella policy for added protection.

State Requirements for Auto Insurance

All states except New Hampshire require auto insurance; even New Hampshire has certain circumstances where coverage is necessary. In Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming, drivers are required to have a minimum level of coverage that includes:

Bodily Injury Liability
Property Damage Liability

Each state has its specific minimum requirements, but it’s essential to remember that these minimums may not be enough to cover the financial burden in the event of an accident.

Consequences of Driving Without Insurance

Driving without insurance in Idaho, Utah, or Wyoming can result in severe penalties, including:

Fines
License suspension
Vehicle impoundment
Possible jail time

In addition to legal penalties, driving without insurance can label you as a high-risk driver, increasing insurance premiums. For example, a study conducted in Utah showed that drivers with a lapse in coverage faced a 42% increase in their insurance rates.

The Importance of Sufficient Coverage

While the minimum coverage may be legally required, it’s often not enough to cover the financial burden of an accident. Consumer groups and Page Insurance recommend having at least 300K in liability coverage (combined single limit) to protect yourself in case of a severe accident.

In a recent case in Idaho, a driver with only the minimum coverage caused a multi-car accident, resulting in over $500,000 in damages and medical expenses. The at-fault driver’s insurance only covered $25,000, leaving them financially responsible for the remaining costs.

The Surprising Benefits of Higher Coverage

Higher coverage levels can sometimes lead to lower premiums. Insurance companies consider past and requested coverage levels when determining rates and product offerings. You may qualify for better products at lower rates by selecting higher coverage.

For example, a driver in Wyoming who increased their liability coverage from the state minimum to 300K saw their premium decrease by 15% due to qualifying for a better insurance product.

Umbrella Policies: Extra Protection When You Need It

When 300K in liability coverage may not be enough, consider adding an umbrella policy to your insurance plan. Umbrella policies provide additional liability protection beyond your auto and home insurance limits, offering extra security in case of a significant accident or lawsuit.