I am the owner of my own insurance agency and have been in the business for 21 years.

It’s my job as an insurance agent to help my customers – especially through the claims process. We may not know all the answers up front, but we certainly try.

Jim, your response is well written and right on. The only thing I’d like to add is that it is critical to gather as much information as possoble right at the scene of the accident. Keep a blank “What should I do in case there’s an accident?” form right in your car’s glovebox (I have them if you want one).

It’s amazing how many phone calls I get from people who were just involved in a car wreck and they have no idea who the other person is, who owns the car, where it is insured, etc. Without this info, it’s very hard to become an investigator, and that’s what takes time when it comes to getting a fast settlement. I suggest writing all this information down before you leave the scene, even if the police are there. It often takes 7-10 days for the police to make a car accident report available.

Good luck out there, and drive safely!