One moment you’re driving along, then wham, you’re involved in a traffic accident. If that isn’t stressful enough, you are about to make some quick decisions that could make matters a lot better, or a lot worse. So what should you do?
First off, check for injuries, call 911 if necessary, then call the police. No matter the severity of damage, a police report can help establish who is at fault and that can be invaluable during the insurance claims process.
If the accident is minor, move vehicles out of traffic. If vehicles are disabled and blocking traffic, use hazard lights, traffic cones, warning triangles and/or flares from your emergency supplies to alert other motorists of the danger. You should then leave the vehicle and move to a safe spot away from the accident scene. Staying inside or near vehicles blocking traffic leaves you exposed to other drivers who might inadvertently collide with the wreckage.
Once everyone is safe, start gathering information such as:
⦁ Drivers and passengers: names and contact information.
⦁ Vehicle descriptions (make, model, year).
⦁ Driver’s license numbers – license plate numbers.
⦁ Insurance companies and policy numbers.
⦁ Eyewitnesses: names and contact information.
⦁ Accident scene location and/or address.
⦁ Police officer’s name and badge number.
⦁ Photos of accident damage (via smartphone)
Next step, call your insurance company, explain the circumstances and tell your agent if you will require a tow truck. If a wrecker rolls up on the accident scene, do not assume it was summoned by police or your insurance company. With some tow truck drivers trolling for business by listening to police scanners, we advise that you check the facts before deciding to use their services. With no state law monitoring what tow companies charge, you could be facing a sky-high bill from a less than reputable company.
Better yet, be pro-active. As a leading towing contractor serving Jackson and surrounding areas since1964, we believe having a trustworthy tow provider (like Ward’s Wrecker Service in Jackson, MS) on your emergency contact list is the smartest way to go. We also want to remind you that Mississippi Law says it is your right to choose where you will have your vehicle repaired after an accident; and recommend you also choose a preferred auto body shop or collision center before you need one.
Were you injured in an accident? Take detailed notes and photos of your injuries and medical treatments to help “make a case” for reimbursement from the insurance company. Keep receipts for medications and medical equipment, co-payments, travel expenses for medical appointments, and record proof of financial losses, such as lost wages.
If you think you need legal assistance, hire a personal injury attorney. Most offer a free initial consultation, and will only take a fee if they acquire compensation for you. Ask friends, family members and/or colleagues for recommendations, or check out client and peer reviews online to find a reputable attorney who will fight for you.
We hope you’ve found this information helpful, and hope the next time you need wrecker service in Jackson MS, you will call us at 601-948-1310. By choosing Ward’s Wrecker Service, we guarantee you will receive quality service, professional towing and reliable roadside assistance 24/7. You may also click on our home page at https://wardswreckerservice.com/to learn more about us, view our services, and read our customer reviews.