12/12/2025
Dear Drivers,
I’d like to share some important information regarding auto accidents.
If you are ever involved in an accident—whether it’s your fault, someone else’s, or the responsibility has not yet been clearly established—please follow these important steps **immediately after the accident**:
---
**1. Safely pull over**
Move your vehicle to the side of the road.
**Always pull to the left on a highway**, never to the right. This reduces the risk of being hit by oncoming traffic.
**2. Maintain the vehicle positions**
While pulling over, **keep the vehicle placement consistent with how the accident happened.**
For example, if another driver hit you from behind, stop your vehicle in a way that reflects that impact. This helps document the scene accurately.
**3. Call the police (911)**
Notify the police that you were involved in an accident. A police presence helps document what happened.
**4. Safely exit your vehicle**
Once it is safe, exit your car and calmly greet the other driver.
**5. Take photos**
Photograph **all vehicle damage**—theirs and yours.
Most importantly, take a clear photo of the **other driver’s license plate**. This helps verify their identity and confirms whether they are properly insured.
**6. Exchange information directly with the other driver**
Ask for:
* Their **driver’s license**
* Their **insurance card**
Take photos of both.
**Do not rely solely on the police to collect this information.**
Officers often document the information of the *insurance agency*, not the actual *insurance carrier*. The insurance **carrier** is the one responsible for paying claims—not the agency or the agent.
Having this information directly will save time and help you open a claim immediately instead of waiting up to **5 business days** for the police report to be uploaded.
7. Contact the correct insurance company**
Once you know who the responsible party’s **insurance carrier** is, call *their* insurance company and file the claim.
**Do NOT call your own insurance carrier** unless:
* The accident was your fault, and you will need to file a claim for your own damages.
If you don’t have the other party’s insurance information, your insurance won’t have it either, and you may lose time.
**Very Important: If You Are At Fault**
If you were at fault and the police officer issued a citation:
**Always show up to court.**
You will likely receive points on your license. By appearing in court, you may be allowed to take a **defensive driving course**, and the judge may **reduce or remove the points**.
If you simply pay the fine, there is no guarantee the points will be removed.
Also remember:
* Paying the fine only settles your debt with the state.
* The accident remains visible to insurance companies.
* It will appear in your insurance history and can affect your insurance score and future rates.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
I’m your local Atlanta agent and I’m here to help you understand how insurance works.
📞 **(561) 235-4334**