Screeching tires, crunching metal – it’s an accident! If you’ve ever been in a car accident in Kalispell, even a minor one, you know how upsetting it can be. It’s hard to think straight and know what to do.

Let’s review what you should do in case of an accident:

Kalispell drivers who have experienced an accident know how nerve-wracking and overwhelming it can be. When an accident occurs, it’s difficult to collect your wits and remember what steps you need to take. If you are involved in an accident, you can lean on this advice to follow the appropriate legal and insurance procedures.

Obviously, the first thing you need to do is stop. In Kalispell, leaving the scene of an accident is considered a crime. The penalty for a hit and run accident is pretty severe, possibly resulting in extensive fines, revocation of your Montana driver’s license, and even jail time.
The next best thing to do in the even of an accident is to warn other Columbia Falls and Big Fork motorists by lighting flares, using your flashers, or lifting your hood. Call Kalispell emergency services as soon as possible. Tell the operator if medical or fire help is needed.

Always file a Kalispell police report. It’s tempting to skip this step if the accident seems relatively minor. But without a police report, the other driver involved can be deceitful when they speak to you insurance company. You need to have an objective police report if you are going to defend yourself against a possibly dishonest testimony. Only discuss the accident with the police. Never admit fault or guilt to anyone, including the police officer. In some instances, we may feel a sense of guilt or fault, even if the other driver is responsible. Let the law decide who is at fault.
When you are speaking to the police, try to describe what happened honestly. Remember, anything you say to the officer or anyone else can be used against you in the court of law later.

Remember to ask the officer for his or her name and ID number, and request a copy of the accident report for your own records. Ask for the other driver’s information. Make sure to note his or her name, address, phone number, birth date, driver’s license number and expiration date, and viable insurance information. Make a note of the other vehicle involved, including this license plate number and vehicle identification number. Most insurance companies don’t record license plate numbers, so the VIN number is the most practical way to track the vehicle.
Ask witnesses, including passengers, to wait for the police. If they can’t wait, ask for contact information and request that they write a brief description of what they saw. If someone refuses to leave their name, write down their license plate number so that the police can track them down later. Always call your insurance agent or your insurance company. Call or see a physician if you think you might be injured. For vehicle repairs, call Loren's Auto Repair at 406-755-7757.

Contact Loren's Auto Repair to learn more about what do do in case of an auto accident.
You can find us at:
1309 US Hwy 2 West
Kalispell, MT 59901
Or call us at 406-755-7757

We at Loren's Auto Repair hope that you never have to use this information and wish you happy Kalispell travels.