Winter weather is coming into play now. We had some very warm temperatures a few weeks ago here in Central Kentucky, but I think we’ll have to wait until Spring for the 60 degree days again.
Be extra cautious over the next few months! Snowy and icy conditions are hazardous!
Put your cell phone away! This should be your normal for every driving trip, no matter the season, but it is especially important in the winter months.
If you have been trying to squeeze out a few more miles from your tires, now is the time to get new ones. You want to have the best tread on your tires at this time of year for sure!
Know how to use anti-lock brakes properly for the weather conditions you are driving in.
Keep an emergency kit in your car, just in case.
Slow down! Slow down! Slow down!
Don’t tailgate. Keep more distance in between you and other cars on the road, especially the one in front of you.
Here are a few more articles you can read for more information and safety tips.
As the owner of an insurance agency, you can imagine I have been exposed to and assisted with many car accidents and car accident claims!
One of the top questions I’ve received is regarding a police report with an accident. Are you required to get a police report at the scene of the crime? If you don’t, how does that impact your insurance claim?
I’ve learned A LOT about the responsibility of the police and sheriff office’s that respond to the scene of a car accident. Here are a few of my observations.
If you are in an accident that has caused injury or death to anyone, such as a passenger in a vehicle, a pedestrian, or someone on a motorcycle or bike, you must obtain a police report. This is the law. If you are involved in a little fender-bender in a parking lot, with minimal damage and no injuries, you have the option to file an accident report with the police after the fact.
The biggest misconception I have found is that the officer that arrives on the scene is not there to determine who is at fault in the accident. Actually, they are there primarily to take down statements of those involved or witnesses at the scene. They will also note road and weather conditions, and note if any drivers appear to be impaired. The officer does not place blame or determine liability or fault. The insurance adjusters are tasked to determine these issues and what carrier will be responsible to pay for injuries and physical damage to vehicles and property involved.
If you are in an accident without injuries and with very limited property damage, here are a couple steps to keep in mind:
ALWAYS GET THE OTHER DRIVER(S) INSURANCE INFORMATION at the scene before you leave.
Take pictures and/or videos of the damage to your car and the other car(s) involved in the accident. If there is damage to other property, such as a guardrail, building, etc., document that damage as well.
Contact your insurance agent and find out the best way to take care of the damage to your vehicle.
Remember, you always have the option to have an officer come to the scene and file the report at the time of the accident.
Here are a couple of links that may assist you with further questions:
1.Kentucky law (KRS 189.635(4)) will provide you with additional details and requirements.
2. The Civilian Collision Report form can be found on the Kentucky State Police website.
Big shoutout to Heather Goodlett for helping me lower my insurance rates!! She was so helpful and took the time to explain all my options to me. She is definitely a huge asset to this company. Call and ask for her!
Very friendly great to work with and very good rates would highly recommend Castle Insurance. Kris does annual review to see if we have the right coverage for our needs. Sends out emails throughout the year,great service.
I had a wonderful experience working with Kris! She helped my mom and I get the best coverage for our needs and was very patient with all of our questions. As an insurance agent myself for 8 years who recently switched career paths, it was great working with someone who was knowledgeable and responsive, and I felt like I was in great hands! I look forward to continuing to work with Castle Insurance and feel confident in my change to Erie.
We have been with Castle Insurance for six years now. Chris Castle does an annual review to insure we are getting the proper coverage for our needs. And the been rates. We are thrilled to have her looking out for our best interest.
Working with castle insurance was easy, fast, and straightforward. Kris was very responsive and took calls outside of normal business hours to accommodate me as I lived in a different time zone at the time. The castle insurance team explained every detail of my policies and really streamlined the entire process. I would highly recommend this team!
