What Do You Do After a Car Accident?

Many East Greenwich drivers may find themselves unsure of what to do after a car accident. Even though you never want it to happen, it’s important to know how to file a car insurance claim or car accident claim. Luckily, the finance department at BMW of Warwick has put together a handy guide to show you exactly how you can recover in every way after a car accident. Learn more with BMW of Warwick. 

Minor Accidents

Not every accident on the Providence roads will be a major accident. Some accidents may just be minor, but there are still steps to take after a minor incident. Even if it’s minor, here is what to do after a car accident: 

1. The first thing you should do is see if you or anyone else in the car needs is injured. If so, call an ambulance immediately. 
2. If you’re able to, you’ll want to pull your vehicle over to a safe spot on the road out of traffic. Be sure not to get too far from the accident so the details can be properly reported. 
3. Once everyone has a grasp on the situation, the next thing you should do is call the police. It’s always a good practice to have an official report documented, and some insurance companies may even require one. 
4. While you’re waiting for the police to arrive, you’ll want to exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver. Be sure to also get a photo of everyone’s driver’s license, plate numbers, and insurance cards just to be safe. 
5. Take detailed photos of the damage to your car and the vehicle of the other driver. Try and also get a photo of the scene of the accident if you can.
6. You’ll then want to call your insurance provider. The quicker they know the details, the quicker they can begin the process of a car accident insurance claim. 

Major Accidents

Unlike most minor accidents, a major accident can result in serious injury or worse. If you find yourself in a major accident on the Cranston roads, here is what to do afterwards: 

1. Call the police immediately. If you or someone is seriously injured, you should alert emergency personnel immediately. The police should arrive with an ambulance to assess the scene of the accident and damage sustained by the vehicles and drivers. Call 911 right away. If you’re unable to provide details at the accident scene, the police will understand, but you should provide details as soon as you’re able. 
2. Call your insurance provider. Even if someone already got a hold of your provider while you received medical attention, it’s still a good idea for you to call them personally. You’ll need to give them more details about the accident to ensure everything is properly documented. 
3. After you are finished receiving the medical care you need, you should follow up with your physician in case you are still feeling any pain afterwards. 

If your vehicle has only sustained minor damage, visit our service center to get back on the North Kingstown roads in no time!

Filing a Car Accident Insurance Claim

Some Warwick drivers may be unsure how to file a car insurance claim, but it’s a process that is vital. The process may differ by insurance provider, but you’ll want to contact them to see what they require. Most of the time, you’ll need the following information when filing a car accident insurance claim: 

• Insurance policy number
• Accident details
• Accident date, time, and location
• Insurance and contact information from all other associated parties
• Police department involved and report number (if you can get it)

After you have taken these steps, an insurance adjuster will help you estimate repair costs, coverage options, and more. If the photos and police report details are not enough, you may have to meet with the adjuster to have your car inspected in person. 

Get Back on the Road with BMW of Warwick

Now that you know what to do after a car accident, you can take the right steps to getting back on the road for your next Warwick trip. Contact us to schedule a service or discuss your options with our finance experts. Let us help you get back on the road quickly and easily!