Having to file a claim for a car accident that you never planned on having is a challenge unto itself. Knowing what to do when and what to expect, can save you money and emotional energy.

The very first thing that you should do when you are involved in a car accident is exchange driver information. That is assuming you are not seriously injured. If you are seriously injured, make sure that the following information is collected by someone at the scene of the accident.

Get the other driver's name, address, telephone number, driver's license number, insurance carrier, policy number, insurance carriers telephone number, and the license plate number of the vehicle or vehicles involved in the accident.

Make sure that you get the name, address, and telephone numbers of any witnesses to the accident. They may be needed to substantiate how the accident occurred.

Local law enforcement should be contacted to report the accident. If you can not reach them, you can go to your local police department, sheriff's office, or Department Of Motor Vehicles and obtain the necessary form to complete and submit it while there. Check the Department Of Motor Vehicles website to see if you can submit your report there.

In the majority of cases, you should report the accident to your insurance company. Before calling them, make sure that you understand your policy.

Sit down and carefully read your car insurance policy. If there is any part of it that you do not understand, call your insurance agent or company, have a list of questions prepared, and get the answers.

If you still are not sure as to what to ask, you may quote car insurance with another insurance company and while you are getting your quote, ask them.

When you are comfortable with what your policy covers, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. An insurance adjuster may be sent to record the damages to your vehicle and take your report and determine who was at fault in the accident. Be prepared for this. If necessary have a written description of what happened including any diagrams that will explain the accident.

And, having a deposition from any of the witnesses at the scene would be helpful.

If the accident was not your fault, you can either contact the other driver's insurance company or have your insurance company contact them to handle the repairs to your vehicle, or if necessary replace your vehicle.

If you use the other driver's insurance company, you will not have to file a claim on your policy and pay any of your deductible to have your vehicle repaired.

Do not relieve the responsible insurance company of its responsibility until all of the damages are settled to your satisfaction. If necessary have your insurance company handle your claim if the other party's insurance company questions who was at fault or offers an unacceptable settlement.

Be sure to consider all of the settlement factors:

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