AT THE SCENE OF AN ACCIDENT

• Call the police if anyone has been injured, if the combined vehicle damage is more than $1000, or if one of the drivers has committed an offence.
• Write down the name, address, insurance company, policy number, and driver's license number of the other driver. If the driver does not own the car, ask for information on the registered owner.
• Get the license number, make, model and year of the other car.
• If the police come to the scene, ask for a copy of their report, or the file number they have assigned to it.
• Get the names & addresses of any witnesses.
• Write down the description of the accident, while the details are still fresh in your mind.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

• If the police have not come to the scene, it is still a good idea to report the accident. That way, if any of the facts are questioned later, the details of the accident will be on record. Go to the police station as soon as possible to make a report. Note the file number the police have assigned to it.
• Regardless of which driver was at fault, call your insurance company or agent. You will be asked by an insurance adjuster to give an accident report.

CHOOSING A BODY SHOP

• You have the right to have your car repaired at the shop of your choice. When you select a shop, the responsibility for a satisfactory repair job rests, finally, with you. So, it is in your best interests to shop carefully for a body shop.
• Look for a shop that has a reputation for doing good work. Check with family & friends, coworkers, and/or the Better Business Bureau. Remember that most reputable body shops will guarantee their quality and workmanship in writing.
• If the repair staff have journeyman certificates, that is one indication of their level of competence. Their equipment should be up-to-date and in good condition. Be aware that specialized equipment is needed to repair late model cars (i.e. 1980 and newer).
• Once you've chosen a shop, notify the insurance company.