Even a minor accident is stressful. Your adrenaline is up, traffic is moving around you, and you are trying to remember what you are supposed to do. Keep this checklist handy. It covers the scene, the claim and the repair.
At the scene
1. Get safe first
If the vehicles can be moved and no one is hurt, pull out of traffic to the shoulder or a parking lot. Turn on your hazard lights. If anyone is injured, call 911 right away and do not move anyone who is hurt.
2. Call the police
Michigan law requires drivers to report accidents that cause injury, death or significant property damage. Even for smaller accidents, an official police report makes your insurance claim much easier. Ask the officer for the report number.
3. Exchange information
Get the other driver's name, phone number, driver's license number, plate number, vehicle make and model, and insurance company and policy number. Get names and numbers from any witnesses too.
4. Take photos, lots of them
Photograph all vehicles from every angle, the damage up close, license plates, the overall scene, skid marks, traffic signs and road conditions. Photos are your best evidence.
5. Do not admit fault
Be polite and cooperative, but stick to the facts. Let the police and insurance companies determine fault.
After the accident
6. Call your insurance company
Report the accident as soon as possible and get a claim number. Michigan is a no-fault state, so your own policy usually covers your vehicle damage through collision coverage, regardless of who caused the accident.
7. Remember: you choose the body shop
Your insurer may recommend a shop from its network. Under Michigan law, the choice is yours. Pick a shop you trust to do a complete, safe repair, not just the cheapest one.
8. Is your car safe to drive?
Warning lights, leaking fluids, broken lights, rubbing tires or a steering wheel that pulls are all signs to stop driving. Arrange a tow instead.
9. Get your estimate and set up a rental
Bring your car in (or have it towed) for an estimate. If you have rental coverage, your shop can help coordinate a rental car while yours is being repaired.
10. Ask about the mini-tort
If the other driver was at fault, Michigan's mini-tort law may let you recover part of your out-of-pocket costs, such as your deductible, from the at-fault driver. Ask your insurer or your body shop how it works.
We can help
Collision Icon has been helping Oak Park drivers through accidents since 1991. We handle the insurance claim, arrange towing and rentals, and repair your vehicle right. Call (248) 406-4897 or request a free estimate.