My Personal Accident Experience

I was driving down a Binghamton street and the next minute I was calling my wife to come and get me as my car was being towed to the scrap heap, accidents are not planned.

Two years ago, I was driving home from work when the vehicle two cars up from me stopped to make a left hand turn into a driveway. The car in front of me stopped, and being observant, and not following too closely, I also came to a complete stop.

The vehicle behind me however, did not stop, and hit me full force, knocking my vehicle into the car in front of me.

In a matter of seconds my vehicle was totaled, and I was standing on the road waiting for someone to pick me up.

This was the first time in my life that I was involved in a traffic accident, so I am writing this blog to give you some insight into what happens and what you need to know.

1. Always carry your insurance ID card in your glove compartment, along with your vehicle registration.
2. Make sure your registration, inspection and insurance premiums are up to date, even if the accident is not your fault, you could be looking at violations.
   Always keep your insurance agents phone number in your contacts, or in with your insurance ID.
3. Make sure there is a law enforcement officer on the scene to document the accident, and get everyone's insurance and vehicle information.
4. If you're experiencing any pain or you don't feel right, get to your doctor or a walk-in right away, I know most of us don't want to look like we're scamming anyone, but whiplash and other injuries may not developed right away, and getting medical attention documented will be important, should residual injuries appeared over the next few days.
5. Make sure you act on phone messages and any forms sent by your Insurance provider as soon as possible.I would also suggest that you go over your options with your insurance agent, I had rental car coverage in my policy, so I was able to get a rental while I looked for another vehicle.

My insurance company reached out to me very quickly, accessed the damage, gave me a rental, and I had another vehicle in just over a week.

In closing I would remind you to always drive defensively, be prepared in case you have an accident, and wear your seatbelt.