Just Had An Accident?
Although car accidents are more prevalent in the winter months, what you need to do after an accident never changes. Obviously it is hard to think clearly after a car accident so it is important to know before you get into one what to do first and what questions may need answered. This checklist will help you know what to do after a car accident. It is best to review it now and then print it out and keep a copy with you in your car.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident
- Determine the Extent of Damage or Injuries
Try to stay calm. Panic can make others panic and the situation worse. There needs to be a calm person to determine the extent of damage and to determine if there are any injuries that need immediate medical attention. - File a Car Accident Report with the Police
Even in a minor accident it is important to make sure there is a legal accident report. Do not leave the scene until the police file a full report. - Discuss the Car Accident Only with the Police
With everyone all shook up it can be hard not to talk about what just happened, but that can also lead to you not thinking clearly and accurately about what happened. It is important to limit your discussion of the accident and not to admit any fault or liability. You should talk about the accident with the police and your insurance agent only. - Get the Facts
This is the part most people know to do, but often forget to after the accident for one reason or another. It is important to get names, address, and phone numbers of everyone involved in the accident. A description of the car and license plate number can also be helpful, but make sure you also get their insurance company and the vehicle identification number of their car. You can find it on the dash on the drivers side or on the front door on the driverside. Don't just assume the license plate number will do because most insurance companies only record the type of car and the vehicle identification number, not the license plate number. - Call SGI Dial a Claim
Call the SGI 800-number immediately, 1-800-647-6448 even at the scene with the police if possible. Sometimes the police officer can give your insurance company more accurate information rather than information you may not be recording properly because you are upset by the accident. This can save you a lot of time later waiting for your claim to be processed. SGI will set up an appointment at one of there 2 East or Northwest claims centre to write up an estimate on the damage. Universal Collision Centre is located just a quick 3min drive down from the Northwest claims centre on Rochdale Blvd. If your car is not driveable then a tow truck will take your vehicle to the commercial claims center on fleet street. Once your have an estimate from SGI please bring it straight to us so we can book you right away into our state of the art facility or fax us 543-9UCC (9822). Please attach your full name and a phone number were you can be reached at. Once we have received the fax one of our CRA's will call you to set an appointment. - A Picture is worth a Thousand Words
Most cellular phones are now equipped with a camera. Take the time to snap a few photos of the vehicle and any other relevant details to be shown to the police, insurance agent or possibly a lawyer. - Call Universal Collision Centre
306-525-6000 or toll free 1-888-484-9UCC (9822) We have a great working partnership with SGI. We can help you answer any accident related questions or we can set up a rental from Thrifty Car and Truck Rental. Let us help you during this stressful time. Our Collision Repair Advisors are here to help. You can also fax us your estimate to 306-543-9UCC (9822)