Whether it’s a fender-bender or major mashup, the idea of dealing with insurance adjusters and claim forms can be nearly as stressful as an accident itself. Take these steps before and after a collision and to handle the experience with as little worry as possible. Keep the following in your car and/or on your phone: Registration, auto insurance policy number and agent contact info Roadside assistance information Medical information for you and your family members Following an accident, use your phone’s camera to take photos of all cars and collect the information you need for calling your agent and making a claim: Name and contact information of all parties Driver’s license numbers License plate numbers and registration for other cars Make and model of all involved vehicles Location where accident occurred as well as time of day, weather and road conditions Once you exchange information, file a police report, and leave the accident site, it’s time to contact your insurance agent. Your policy may require prompt reporting and your memory of what occurred will be clear the sooner you place a call. Be prepared to tell your agent: Which vehicle covered under the policy was involved in the accident Who was driving and where/when the accident occured A general description of what happened and the severity of damage to all vehicles The name and insurance company information for the other driver Any witness names Your agent will also want a police report number. If a report was not done at the scene, you can still get one at the local police station. Stick to facts and provide any photos you can. You may be required to take your car to a certified repair shop for inspection. The adjuster will then consider and evaluate your claim and decide what compensation, if any, you should receive.