So, you were in a car accident. Now what?

Picture this, you’re driving to work, roads are fine, you’re obeying the law and then…BOOM. Another driver hits you out of nowhere. You’re fine, they’re fine, but you’re frustrated and now you’re late for work.

Car accidents are scary, frustrating, and largely an inconvenience to any driver. Whether it’s a fender bender or a much larger accident, there are steps that should be taken after an accident has happened.

First and foremost, we’d like to point out, if you are injured, please wait to be seen by an EMS worker or medical professional. All of the things we’re about to list are for the able-bodied. If you’re injured, your first priority is you.

If you’re not injured, this part is for you.

According to our Auto Claims Supervisor, Samantha, here’s what you need to do after an accident:

• Move to a safe space
• Take photos of any damage to your vehicle
• Contact the police and file a report
• If the police are unable to come to the scene, exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver
• If the vehicle can be safely driven, drive it home (or wherever you’re going)
• If your vehicle is not drivable, call a tow truck and have it taken to the nearest tow facility or qualified repair facility
• Save all of your receipts
• Call your Independent Insurance Agent to file a claim or, if you’re a Pioneer customer, use our mobile app (available in Android & iOS) or head to our website  
• Wait for a call from a Pioneer Claims Adjuster (within 24 business hours) who will walk you through the next steps

Following these steps will help you avoid headaches when it comes to the claims process. Of course, our Claims Adjusters will do whatever they can to make the process as easy as possible for our customers but doing your part helps us do our part a lot quicker!

Have any questions about what you just read? Please contact your Independent Insurance Agent or email us at socialmedia@psmic.com!

Disclaimer: This is a general interpretation of processes and coverage. All claims are subject to Insuring Agreements, Endorsements, Exclusions, Terms, and Conditions of the Policy.