Imagine driving down the highway when out of nowhere a deer jumps out in front of you. You swerve to avoid it, but it doubles back, and you’re forced to turn off into the median ditch. Now, your car is immovable; you’re pretty sure it’s totaled, and you have no idea if your insurance will cover any of the damages or replacement.
Situations like this one and accidents involving deer happen more often than you might think. Many drivers don’t know how to handle these situations, but fortunately, we’ve got you covered. Below, check out our must-do to-do list if you ever find yourself in an accident like this one or any other.
#1 – Are you safe? Check all passengers.
Check over your body for any injuries (bleeding, bruises, scrapes, or cuts). How are your head and spine? Your legs and arms?
Go over any other passengers in your car as well. If anyone has a spinal injury, do not move them. For any injuries, contact emergency medical services as soon as possible.
Also remember that if you’re able, you should move your car off the road and turn on your hazard lights.
#2 – Call the police.
Phone the police and explain what happened and where you are. A patrol car will be sent to create a police report of the accident and help you with medical services if necessary.
#3 – Take photographs of the scene.
If you’re able, take pictures of the accident scene. These may be useful later.
#4 – Were other drivers involved? Get their information.
If any other drivers were involved in the accident, ask them for their personal and insurance information.
#5 – Call your insurance agent.
They’ll need to know what happened as soon as possible and will likely ask you for the information you gathered from the other drivers. While you’re on the phone, if you need a tow truck and/or rental car, ask about these things. You may be able to get one through your insurance company and save money. If you call a tow truck and plan a rental car without consulting your insurance first, you may not be reimbursed.
#6 – Get a repairs estimate.
After receiving an estimate from a garage, take this to your insurance company (unless your agent has recommended a particular garage). Your adjuster will either approve the repairs, adjust them, or tell you that your car is beyond repair. If they say the latter, this usually means that the repairs cost more than 70% of the total worth of your vehicle.
#7 – Get the repairs you need or a new car.
Okay, the repairs after the estimate are approved, or wait for a check from your insurance company for new car shopping.
#8 – Do you have optional coverage? Ask your agent.
Ask your agent about other optional “endorsements” that you may have on your policy. These add-ons may be something like new car replacement coverage or GAP coverage.
New car replacement coverage will provide you with a brand new replacement car if your totaled car was less than a year old and had less than 15,000 miles on it. GAP or loan/lease coverage will provide you with funds for the difference between the balance you still owe on a lease or loan and the actual value of your car.
Have Peace of Mind With a Great Auto Insurance Plan
If you want the greatest peace of mind while on the road, make sure you choose a comprehensive insurance plan with an auto insurance agent who has a great reputation. Mid-Rivers Insurance can help. We’d be happy to sit down with you and show you our excellent auto insurance options. Call or stop by today!
