Knowing What to do After an Auto Accident Can Save You Thousands

SALEM, Ore., Sept. 16, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- You spend a lot on auto insurance, and you want it to be there for you when you need it. Taking the right steps after an accident can help make sure you'll get the insurance coverage you deserve. The Oregon Insurance Division regulates insurance companies operating in Oregon, and offers the following tips for after an auto accident:

• Oregon law requires that you call the police, and also file a report with the DMV, if there is more than $1,500 damage to a vehicle, or if someone is injured. $1,500 worth of damage is hard to judge. And sometimes injuries aren't apparent for several hours. When it doubt, call. Unless it is truly an emergency, use a non-emergency number.
• Exchange information with the other driver, even if they say they will pay for the damages out of pocket. Get their name and contact information, as well as the contact information for their insurance company, the policy number and expiration date.
• Take good notes, pictures, and get contact information from any witnesses. There is a great mobile app called WreckCheck™. This free mobile app for iPhone® and Android® smartphones outlines what to do following an accident and walks you through a step-by-step process to create your own accident report.
• Allow the police or the insurance companies to assess who was at fault and responsible for the damages. Don't admit fault or sign any statements in the stress of the moment.
• Call your insurance company right away. Most companies have limits on how soon you need to contact them in order to protect your coverage.
• Let your insurance company contact the other driver's insurance company. They know all the rules and are in a better position to negotiate for you.
• If your car is declared a total-loss and you don't agree with the offered value, know that you can appeal at no cost to you.

If you have questions about insurance, or about how a claim is being handled, you can call the Oregon Insurance Division for free, confidential assistance. The Insurance Division has a team of knowledgeable insurance experts that can help you understand your rights and can contact your insurance company on your behalf if there is a problem to solve. Oregon Insurance Division advocates are available Monday through Friday, 9 to 5 at 1-888-877-4894, or online at Insurance.Oregon.gov.

The Department of Consumer and Business Services is Oregon's largest business regulatory and consumer protection agency. Visit http://www.dcbs.oregon.gov.

SOURCE Oregon Insurance Division