Q: What should I do if I have just had an auto accident?
A: Make sure you and your passengers are okay. Dial 911 on your cell phone or get someone else at the scene to call if you or a passenger is experiencing a medical emergency. Once you are sure you are not hurt, warn oncoming traffic by activating your hazard lights or by carefully exiting your car and setting flares if you have them.
Notify the police if the other parties are not cooperative. Oregon law requires that each party remain at the scene until information has been exchanged.
Exchange information with the other driver. Be sure to write down:
- the license plate number for all involved vehicles,
- driver's license numbers of all other drivers and witnesses,
- names of all drivers and witnesses,
- addresses,
- phone numbers of all drivers and witnesses,
- name of the insurance company,
- policy number.
DO NOT ADMIT FAULT for the accident. Stay calm and do not argue with the other driver, even if you believe the other driver is entirely at fault.
CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT or COMPANY
Report the accident. Most companies can take your claim information 24 hours a day. While reporting your claim, be sure to write down:
- The name of your adjuster or claim representative,
- Your adjuster's phone number and extension,
- Your claim number.
You will need these things when calling back to check on your claim. Your adjuster will likely be the only one you talk to through the whole claims process. Keep their number and extension, as well as your claim number, always handy. Call your insurance agent at 503-489-3143 for further assistance.
