What to do in case of an auto accident

An accident can be a very scary experience. Whether it is a simple fender bender, or an serious auto accident, our minds scramble to think of what to do next. At the James Fink Insurance Agency, we want to make sure you are prepared to handle anything.

Here are seven steps to take if you are involved in an auto accident:

1- Stop and check for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911.

2- Set flares, or signal with a flashlight, to warn other drivers and prevent further damage.

3- Notify the police.

4- Gather facts - names and phone numbers of any witnesses, and information about the other driver (driver's license number, phone number, insurance information, and description of the other vehicle)

5- Be careful what you say. Don't admit responsibility - an investigation may show that you weren't responsible.

6- Based on your state's laws, find out which authorities you're required to inform and be sure to inform them all of the accident.

7- Call you claims service. At Farmers, our claims service is HelpPoint and they are an award-winning, 24/7 claims service with caring professionals ready to answer your questions and help begin the process of getting your life back in order.

Be prepared

It is also very important to know which items you should have in your vehicle at all times so that you are prepared in the even of an auto accident.

1- Insurance identification card and vehicle registration

2- Camera. Many cell phones today have a camera built in, but it might be a good idea to keep an additional disposable camera in the car just in case. Take pictures of the scene and vehicles.

3- Jumper cables

4- Emergency contacts list for authorities to notify family

5- Medical card including information about medical conditions and allergies

6- First-aid kit

7- Blanket

8- Pen and paper to take down information needed

9- Flares or "Need Help" sign

Another very important part of being prepared for an auto accident is having the appropriate liability limits. If your current liability limits are too low, you could personally be responsible to pay for injuries or damages caused in the auto accident. Liability coverage is the key component that helps keep a bad day from turning into a bad life. If you would like to sit down and review your current coverages to make sure you are properly prepared for an auto accident, please contact my agency. Our goal is to help make you feel comfortable with the protection you are driving around with every day.

James Fink Insurance Agency

3470 Washington Drive

Eagan, MN 55122