How to Respond in a Tough Situation
Being in a car accident is the last thing anyone wants - but when it does
happen, there are ways of making sure that the legal and insurance issues
are handled with as little stress as possible.
- First of all - stay calm.
- If someone is injured, be sure to call for medical
help.
- Make sure you call the police.
- Don't publicly make any statements where you either
accuse the other person of causing the accident or take all the blame
yourself. It could open you up to legal problems.
- Whatever you do, don't leave the scene until you've had
a chance to talk with the officer and you've gotten their name. It's
important to make sure that your side of the story goes on the record.
Afterward, it's a good idea to get a copy of the police report.
- Make sure you have a pre-printed copy of your insurance
information in the glove compartment, along with a camera you can use to
provide pictures for the insurance company. A disposable camera with a
flash for nighttime or interior shooting is usually best for this.
- In dealing with the other driver, make sure you get
their name, address, driver's license number and insurance information - and
that they get the same information from you.
- Also, make sure to get information from any witnesses
as well.
- Make sure you get pictures of any physical evidence of
what could have caused the accident.
- Write down pertinent details such as where the accident
took place, what the weather was like, etc.
- Once the information's exchanged, report the accident
to the insurance company immediately, even if it's not your
fault.
- Make sure you understand how you're covered, and don't
be afraid to ask the insurance company to explain the conditions of your
coverage and payments.
- Don't be afraid to seek legal advice - and don't sign
anything if you don't understand it.
- When you're using a body shop to get repairs to your
vehicle, be aware that the insurance company can recommend a shop, but you
are under no legal obligation to use its services. You have the legal right
to choose the shop to do your repairs.
- Also be aware that insurance companies sometimes try to
dictate what type of parts are used in a vehicle's repair. They might
insist that a shop not use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts, as
they are more expensive.
You have a right to know what kind of parts are being used on your vehicle,
and to know if your insurance policy dictates what kind of parts can be used
in your car. If your policy lets you choose, you have the right to decide
for yourself.
- An insurance company also has the right to inspect your
vehicle, but it is not required to do so. In addition, they cannot require
you to visit one of their own claim centers.
- And finally: Make sure you learn from this accident,
but also let yourself move on from what happened. Everyone has an accident
once in a while - it's just something that happens.
Remember - Drive Safely!
Want more information on your rights? To make an appointment, call us at
616-957-0841 or make an appointment
online!
What People Say About Us
Always top notch service! On time as promised and with prices that are always better than the dealership.
I've had several cars serviced by Cascade Auto Services. They do a great job at a fair price. Perhaps more importantly, they are have shown the utmost integrity in working on my vehicles.
Jeff and his guys do a wonderful job of providing service and explaining the process behind what they are doing and why it needs to be done. I highly recommend Cascade Automotive Service!
Since moving to the Grand Rapids area I went from repair shop to repair shop looking for a place that did great work and had fair prices. Went a decade before finding Cascade Automotive and now that is where I take my vehicles. They accurately diagnose the issues, fix things right, all at the reasonable price. I trust Cascade Automotive.
Cascade Automotive has always given us top notch service on all of our vehicles! And much better pricing than dealerships. Also love that it’s close to home and can walk home after dropping off my vehicle. Very reliable service, they have our trust!
Great service at Cascade Automotive Service. They are very efficient. This was appreciated greatly. A sense of urgency when you don't have a car is very nice. They explain in detail what needs to be fixed get the job done right. They also open at 7:30 which is nice for early drop offs before work. I would recommend this service. Thank you!
