What to Do After a Car Accident in Kansas City

Nobody expects to be in a car accident, but knowing the right steps can make a stressful situation much more manageable. Whether it's a minor fender-bender or something more serious, here's what Kansas City drivers should do.

Step 1: Safety First

Before anything else, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately. If the accident is minor and everyone is okay, move your vehicles to a safe location off the road if possible.

Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. In Missouri and Kansas, you're required to report accidents that result in injury, death, or property damage over $500.

Step 2: Document Everything

Exchange information with the other driver: names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Take photos of the damage to all vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim.

If there are witnesses, get their contact information too. Their statements can be helpful if there's a dispute about what happened.

Step 3: File Your Claim

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Most carriers have 24/7 claims lines, and prompt reporting helps the process go smoothly. Your agent (that's us!) can help guide you through the claims process and advocate on your behalf.

Need help with a claim or want to make sure your auto coverage is where it should be? We're here to help. Give us a call or request a quote to see how we can help protect you on Kansas City roads.