Being involved in an accident while driving a company-owned vehicle can be a stressful experience. As the driver, you have a responsibility to take the necessary steps to ensure everyone involved is safe and that the proper authorities are notified.
If you’re ever involved in a crash while driving a company car, here are some important tips on what to do next.
What to do if you’re involved in an accident in a company Car
Contact the first responders
The first thing you should do if you’re in an accident is to check for injuries. Call the police immediately after an accident and request medical assistance if necessary. Even if no one appears to be injured, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional, just to be safe. Even if the accident appears to be minor, any time there are injuries, you must report the accident to the police. The police will file an incident report, which could be helpful for filing an insurance claim.
Move to a safe location
If the accident is minor, your vehicle is still drivable and there are no injuries, move to a safe location on the side of the road until police arrive to prevent further accidents or traffic. You may get out of your vehicle and stand a safe distance from the roadway. Do not stand between the two cars.
If there are serious injuries and/or the vehicles have major damage, leave the vehicles where they are. Do not move an injured person unless there is immediate danger (i.e. potential fire or position of car is near an embankment or water.)
Exchange information
Even if the police are taking down information, it’s a good idea to take your own records. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
- Contact information: name, phone number, address
- Insurance company
- Description of the vehicles (make, model, year, color)
- License plate number
- Driver’s license number.
Write down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses to the accident.
Also take down details of the accident.
- Date and time of the day
- Weather conditions and approximate temperature
- Road/route where the accident occurred
- Conditions of the road (gravel, obstacles, etc.)
- Nearest crossroad or mile marker if on a highway
- Direction of travel of your vehicle and the other vehicle
- Draw a picture if possible
Take photos
If possible, take photos of the accident scene. This includes photos of the damage to the vehicles and any other damaged property.
Report the accident to your supervisor
As the driver of a company-owned vehicle, it is important that you report the accident to your supervisor as soon as possible. They can help you navigate the process of filing an insurance claim, getting the vehicle repaired, and ensuring that the proper authorities are notified.
File an insurance claim
Once you have reported the accident to your supervisor, you will need to file an insurance claim. It is important to provide all necessary information, including the police department, loss location, vehicle information, description of the claim and damage.
Follow up
After the accident, follow up with your supervisor and your insurance company to confirm the necessary repairs are made and the claim is properly processed. Keep copies of all documentation related to the accident, including the police report, medical bills, and repair receipts.
By following these steps, you can help prevent further damage and protect yourself and your company. Accidents happen, which is why having the right business auto insurance is essential for companies of all sizes. To learn more or request a business insurance quote, contact your local Rural Mutual agent.
