Emotions tend to run high when you're involved in an accident, especially depending on how severe the wreck is. This can make your line of thinking a bit blurred. When you're having to make hasty decisions, filing a police report, and trying to talk to your insurance company, it can get down right frustrating. That's why it's a good idea to be well-versed in what to say, and know a few general rules of thumb when you're stuck in a situation like this. 

Assess the Damage

Sometimes the wreck isn't severe enough to even worry about involving your insurance company. Since you're not required to make a police report, you can sometimes talk to the other party involved and work out who was at fault and who will pay out. Sometimes the other party involved won't want to go along with this idea, so don't push it if they don't. Remember, even small accidents create stress and get your adrenaline flowing. Lastly, if anyone is injured, calling your insurance company should be the only option you consider. 

Have Quick Access to Your Insurance Card

Following a wreck, the last thing you want to be doing is fumbling around for your insurance card. Having ready access to your insurance card will make communication between you and the other party run much smoother. Your insurance card should also have the limits of your policy coverage and contact information for your insurance carrier to file a claim. They will also be able to instruct you on any special instructions they might have for you. 

Don't Wait for a Wreck to Know What Your Policy Covers

Having your insurance agent, one from a company like Maynard Insurance Agency Inc, walk you through your coverage when you first obtain it should be paramount. However, it's also a good idea to take a look through it every renewal or at least once a year, depending on the term of the policy. Most people acquire more assets as they get older, so if you've had the same policy for ten years, but have bought a house then you'll want to carry enough liability to protect yourself. If you're involved in an at-fault accident and don't carry a high enough limit then you're at risk of having your assets targeted as compensation. 

Know Your Deductibles

As long as you carry comprehensive and collision coverage then your vehicle is covered up to the amount that it's currently valued at. Knowing your deductibles means you won't be surprised if you're stuck with a $1,000 bill rather than a $500 one. You can also consider adding a disappearing deductible coverage to your policy if you're a safe driver. Accidents can happen in a second, and not having to pay your deductible after an accident can cushion the experience. 

Use Careful Language When Speaking to the Claims Adjuster

If you're involved in a serious accident then you'll want to be careful about how you approach talking to the adjuster. If you believe your injury is severe then do not downplay it. Saying something as simple as, "I'm feeling fine today," can give the adjuster the wrong impression. Sometimes the best advice is to seek council from an attorney so they can help you communicate with the insurance company and ensure you get a pay out large enough to reimburse you for medical bills.