If you are in an accident, the following tips may be helpful:

First, use wisdom in your actions: If there is an accident, call the police immediately and cooperate with them when they arrive. Move the vehicles out of traffic or put up flares. (I recommend that you keep flares in your vehicle’s emergency kit) Get help for anyone who has been injured. Write down the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Insist that all drivers be tested for alcohol consumption if you are concerned that alcohol may have been involved in the accident. Before leaving the scene of the accident, get the police case number for your records.

Second, keep calm and stay in control. Write down your memories of the events leading up to and following the accident. Don’t sign anything or admit guilt. Remember to be firm on your views about what happened when you speak with the police officers. Don’t be afraid to speak up and give pertinent information about the accident—even if that information contradicts the other driver’s story.

Third, follow up on the accident properly and promptly. Get the name of the other driver’s insurance company and call your insurance company as soon as possible. Cooperate with your agent and your claims adjuster, the person assigned by your insurance agent to determine the amount of the loss. Obtain a copy of the police report and keep records of all accident-related expenses. Review the settlement steps in your policy and follow these steps exactly.

Finally, if you are dissatisfied with the settlement that the insurance company offers, request a meeting with your agent and your claims adjuster. If you are still not satisfied after this meeting, contact your insurance company’s consumer affairs office or the state insurance commissioner and explain your concerns.