» Stop at once and identify yourself.

» Exchange license, registration, and insurance information with the other driver, other injured persons, and any police officers.

» If injuries appear serious, call for First Aid. If you feel you were injured in any way, see a doctor immediately. It is important to seek medical attention right away.

» Write a complete description of the accident as soon as possible. Use this handy accident record to help you describe the information. If possible, take photographs, even if this means returning to the accident scene at a later time.

» Notify your insurance company, even if the claim appears small and there are no apparent injuries. Settling the claim yourself is dangerous and may be unwise. Follow all prescribed procedures when reporting the accident to your insurance company.

» Be aware of the "Appraisal Clause" in your insurance policy. If your insurance company and the collision repair shop cannot agree on what repairs should cost, this could provide a means for a fair settlement.

» Have even minor damaged repaired. Letting your car go un-repaired can cost you in the long run. Dents and rust spots can deduct from the resale or trade-in value of our car.

» Do not discuss responsibility, do not discuss the circumstances of the accident with anyone except the police and a positively identified representative of your insurance company.

» Never give a signed statement to the claims adjuster representing the other driver's insurance company. The same goes for a phone recording. This information may be used against you in court.

» Don't accept a check for the repair of your car until you are sure it covers all the repairs. As the owner, you are the person who is responsible for having your car repaired to your satisfaction. Choosing a quality repair shop is an important decision in assuring your satisfaction.

» Don't be fooled by "lowest estimate". There is a big difference in body shops. A low bid could reflect an incomplete job. When some things -- such as wheel alignment -- are overlooked on a repair, the consequences to the driver can be serious. An improperly repaired car, especially once with major structural damage, is like a time bomb waiting to go off. Exercise your right to determine which shop will repair your car. Make sure every detail has been attended to and repaired to your complete satisfaction before signing an insurance company's release.

» Don't allow your car to be towed to a repair shop you are unfamiliar with. Do not authorize repairs by signing a towing release unless you have decided to have you car repaired by the ship where you car is being towed. Read and understand all papers before you sign them.

Elma Collision ... We Care About You and Your Car!