What to Do After a Fender Bender: A Quick Guide from Roland, Abbott & DeZoort Insurance

A “fender bender” may sound harmless, but anyone who’s been in one knows how disruptive even a minor collision can be. There’s the jolt of impact, the worry about damage, and the uncertainty of what to do next. At Roland, Abbott & DeZoort Insurance, we walk drivers through these moments every day. Here’s a simple, straightforward guide to help you navigate the aftermath with confidence.

First Things First: Safety and Well-Being

After any collision—big or small—your priority should be safety. Move your vehicle to a secure location if you can, then check yourself and any passengers for injuries. It’s common for aches, strain, or stiffness to appear hours later, so take a moment to assess how you’re feeling. Even if the damage looks minimal, don’t assume everyone is fine without checking.

Gathering the Right Information

Once everyone is safe, begin exchanging details with the other driver involved. You’ll need their name, phone number, insurance company, and license plate number. While that information is essential, photographs are just as important. Take clear pictures of all vehicles, the surrounding scene, visible damage, and anything that might help document the impact. Some forms of damage aren’t obvious at first glance, and having a visual record will help both insurance companies clearly understand what happened.

When to Call the Police—and Your Insurance Agent

Even for low-speed accidents, contacting the police is a smart step. A police report provides an official record of what occurred, which can be invaluable later if questions arise. After that, reach out to your independent agent at Roland, Abbott & DeZoort Insurance. We’ll help you determine whether a claim should be filed and what information you’ll need, such as the time of the accident, road conditions, airbag deployment, passengers involved, and the specific areas where each vehicle was struck.

We know that in the moments after an accident, everything can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team is here—to guide you through each step and remove as much stress from the process as possible.

Preparing Today for Whatever Happens Tomorrow

You can’t predict when an accident will occur, but you can make sure you’re protected before you need the coverage. Reviewing your auto insurance regularly is one of the smartest things you can do as a driver. Comprehensive, collision, rental reimbursement, and diminished value coverage are all options that can make a major difference after an accident. If you’re unsure what your policy includes—or what you may need—our independent agents are always happy to walk through your coverage with you.

We’re Here When You Need Us

A fender bender may not cause major damage, but dealing with it is rarely simple. With the right information, the right preparation, and the right team in your corner, you’ll be able to manage the situation with clarity and confidence.

If you’d like to review your auto insurance or explore the coverages mentioned above, reach out to your independent agent at Roland, Abbott & DeZoort Insurance. We’re here to help you protect what matters most, and to make the unexpected feel manageable. Give us a call: 478-745-7200.