Strachan-Casale Insurance Blog

It's no surprise that the recent winter storms have caused hundreds of accidents across the state.  Janice Piazza of Strachan-Casle, Insurance offers her tips on what to do if you are involved in a winter driving accident and information drivers should collect from the other driver if they are in a fender bender. 

“If you get the important information from the other driver because it will make the claim filing process go so much smoother,” said Jan Piazza.

Jan suggests that Ohio drivers:

·         Be safe!   Make sure you stay away from moving traffic after an accident.  Do not put yourself in a dangerous situation.  Move your vehicle out of harm’s way if you are able.

·         Assist others if necessary – Check on passengers in your car and in the other vehicle(s) and see if they need help, but only if it doesn’t put you in a dangerous situation.  Dial 911 imediately.

·         Take photos  Try to take as many pictures as possible of the damage.    Also, sketch a diagram of the accident, making sure to label your car, any other vehicles involved, streets, highways and other points of interest.

·         Exchange information – Get the name, address, phone number, date of birth from the other drivers involved in the accident.  Also, get the driver’s insurance information, including policy.  If the driver of the car is not the owner of the vehicle, get the insurance information of the vehicle as well.

·         Get witness information – Get the contact information of those who may have seen the accident.  Your insurance company and/or police may want to speak to them late.

·         File a police report – If the accident is not serious, you do not need to call the police to have them do a report at the scene.  Police may also be too busy to respond to a minor accident.  If this is the case, you can move your vehicles to the side of the road, exchange information and then file a report later.  If an officer does come to the scene, make sure to get his information as well (name, badge number, etc.)

Ohio drivers with questions and concerns about their insurance can call Strachan-Casale, Insurance at 1-877-727-0909. Free information can also be obtained at www.scinsure.com.