WreckCheck App ~Fender Benders and Your Privacy
Last week the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) reported that although 5 million wrecks occur every year, many Americans do not know what steps to take or what basic information to share with the other party.
As agents and contractors we are in our vehicles... A Lot! Statistics show we are more likely to get in an accident as we are in our autos more.
Of course, you have heard of the fraudulent rings that stage accidents to bilk the insurance companies. But, did you know that in an accident some people allow the other party to snap a photo of their driver's license? Now, a complete stranger has your name, address and an important piece of information for identity theft.
So just what does the proper exchange of information include? I have to say it....sorry....There's an app for that! The NAIC has come out with a free mobile app that will guide you with the correct information to exchange that has an eye toward keeping your information private. It is a step by step guide of what to do immediately following an accident, what to take pictures of (like landmarks and license plates), a place to put your description of what happened. It will even email an accident report to you or your insurance company.
The app called WreckCheck is available for Androids (yay) and iphones (at least the 3GS). For those without smartphones, you can download a checklist to keep in your glove compartment, view a video and see other materials to help consumers protect themselves after an accident at the site. There are lots of good tips here.
Here is a quick recap of Important information:
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Do not allow your license to be photographed
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Do not give out your phone number. However, if another driver is unable to provide vehicle ownership and/or insurance information it is appropriate to ask for their phone number, address and driver's license number.
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Do call the police, even if there are no injuries. Some cities do not send anyone out but check anyway.
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Go ahead and download the app or the checklist and Drive Safely!
Read the full report
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