What Should You Do After a Car Accident to Help Your Insurance Claim?

At Murphy Insurance Agency, we understand how unsettling an auto accident can be. We have helped many clients through the claims process, and we know that a little preparation can make a big difference. The checklist below outlines practical steps you can take after a car accident to help protect yourself and keep your claim on track.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

1. Check for injuries and focus on safety– Your first priority should always be safety. Check on everyone involved and call for medical assistance immediately if anyone is injured.
2. Call the police or highway patrol – Even in minor accidents, a police report can be very helpful for insurance purposes. Law enforcement can also request emergency services if needed.
3. Protect the accident scene – If it is safe to do so, move vehicles out of traffic and use hazard lights, flares, or cones to help prevent further accidents.
4. Provide factual information to law enforcement – When speaking with the responding officer, explain what happened clearly and calmly. Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions. Stick to the facts as you know them.
5. Ask how to obtain the police report – Find out when and where you can get a copy of the report, as it is often required during the auto insurance claim process.
6. Exchange information with other involved driver – Be sure to write down:
   • Names and addresses of all drivers and passengers
   • Driver’s license numbers
   • License plate numbers
   • Vehicle make, model, and year
   • Insurance company names and policy information
7. Gather witness information – If there were witnesses to the accident, collect their names and contact details in case follow-up is needed.
8. Record details of responding personnel – Note the names and badge numbers of any police officers or emergency responders who assisted at the scene.
9. Take photos of the scene and damage – Photograph vehicle damage, license plates, the surrounding area, and any visible road conditions. Photos can be very helpful when reviewing a car insurance claim.
10. Document what you remember – As soon as possible, write down details about the accident, including the location, time, weather conditions, and how it occurred.
11. Keep records of accident-related expenses – Save receipts for expenses such as towing, rentals, or medical visits. Depending on your policy, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
12. Contact Murphy Insurance Agency – Once you are safe, contact Murphy Insurance Agency to report the accident. We will guide you through the next steps and let you know what documentation is needed to support your claim. For added convenience, you can report the claim on our website Claims Center or use our Murphy Insurance 24 Mobile App, which includes a built‑in claims feature to help walk you through the process step by step, right from your phone.
13. Confirm repair details before work begins – Before any work begins, ask for a clear explanation of the repair plan and review the written estimate. Make sure you understand what will be repaired or replaced, and raise any questions with the body shop and your insurance agent.
14. Track all claim-related communication – Keep a simple log noting the date, name, and summary of conversations with insurance representatives, repair shops, or rental companies.

We’re Here to Help

Being in a car accident can be stressful, but you do not have to navigate the insurance process alone. Staying calm, following these steps, and reaching out early can help reduce delays and unnecessary complications. At Murphy Insurance Agency, we are here to help you every step of the way.