What Do I do In the Event of An Auto, Property, or Liability Loss?

Ever been in a car accident? Or, been affected by a fire, burglary, theft, etc? Even injured someone accidentally?

Chances are there was a flood of emotions going through your head if you’ve experienced any of these scenarios. During times like these, it’s likely you’ll have to rely on your insurance coverage to help you through it. These are the times you’re actually really happy your paid those insurance premiums.

Here are some tips on what to do in the event of an auto, property, or liability loss courtesy of Golden Eagle Insurance*:

Automobile Losses

• Make sure everyone is okay – call for medical assistance if necessary
• Notify the police about the loss
• Exchange contact and insurance information with other parties
• Get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses
• Make a diagram of accident
• Photograph the scene prior to moving the vehicle(s) if this can be safely done
• Take reasonable steps to move your vehicle from the scene and to safeguard it and any personal property contained in the vehicle from subsequent damage
• Make no commitments for payment
• Do not discuss fault or blame at the scene
• Do not discuss the details of the accident with anyone except the police, your insurance agent, claim adjuster, or your legal counsel

Property Losses

• Protect all property from further damage
• Preserve all evidence
• Locate purchase records to document values
• Describe extent of damage to property
• If emergency restoration services are needed, call a service such as Servpro at 1-800-SERVPRO

General Liability Losses

• Contact emergency personnel if necessary
• Document how, when and where the accident occurred
• Photograph scene and/or all damaged articles
• Complete accident investigation form (available from your agent or insurance carrier)
• Collect names, addresses and telephone numbers of injured persons
• Make note of any injuries/complaints
• Identify any potential witnesses and secure their names, addresses and telephone numbers
• Make no commitments for payment
• Do not discuss fault or blame at the scene
• Do not discuss the details of the loss with any party representing the injured person without first consulting with your insurance agent, claim adjuster or legal counsel

*While not an exhaustive list, the above information is provided to assist you should a loss occur. Nothing contained within this material should be construed as providing legal advice nor does it imply coverage will be afforded. Every claim submitted must be reviewed and evaluated based upon the applicable policy of insurance and the facts of loss.

–JK