What do I need to know in case of an auto accident? | Auto FAQ

Being involved in an accident can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but knowing how to handle the situation calmly and responsibly is essential. Following the proper steps can protect your safety, ensure accurate documentation, and safeguard your interests. Here are some critical guidelines to follow in the aftermath of an accident to help you navigate the situation effectively.

Most importantly, stay calm. Getting upset, or worse, yelling and screaming, solves nothing. Even if the other person isn’t calm, you should remain calm.
Don’t move an injured person unless they’re in immediate danger.

What do I need to know in case of an auto accident Auto FAQ

Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

Don’t move your vehicle unless it impedes traffic. Doing so alters the scene and could negatively impact a claim.
Don’t leave the scene of an accident, even if you can do so. Wait for the police to arrive, as they provide an objective witness to the event, and wait for them to say it’s okay to go.
If you leave because the other driver says it’s alright, that won’t protect you if they later file for injuries. If you leave, they may not, and you could be accused of a hit-and-run.
Keep in mind that some injuries don’t show up immediately.
Don’t blame the accident on anyone, including yourself. Give your full description of the accident only to the investigating police officer.
Exchange information with the other driver. Immediately note the license plate number, color, and model of other involved vehicles just in case someone refuses to give you insurance information.
Contact our office immediately. Don’t assume that we’ll be notified by some other means. It’s always better to hear directly from you or someone you designate to call us.

Learn about our Auto Insurance Policies

Auto Insurance Auto Quote

Every insurance company has its unique offerings, making it challenging to compare options effectively. That’s where we shine.

Read our Auto Collision Blog Posts

Auto Insurance in Hudson, MA: What You Need to Know

March 28, 2025

If you live in Hudson, MA, or the surrounding areas, securing the right auto insurance is essential. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend traveler, or a first-time driver, having the appropriate coverage ensures protection on the road and compliance with Massachusetts’ legal requirements.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

March 27, 2025

When you’re involved in a vehicle collision and the other driver takes off without exchanging insurance information, this is commonly referred to as a hit-and-run. Review the following guidance to understand what information to collect and who to contact following a hit-and-run incident.

Gap Insurance

February 10, 2025

Car owners often assume that if their car is totaled, it will be replaced at the amount they paid, or at least the amount they owe. However, that’s not always the case — learn why and what you can do to protect yourself.

10 Tips for What to Do at an Accident Scene

April 12, 2023

In the event of an accident, staying calm is essential for managing the situation effectively. Remember to prioritize safety by checking for injuries, calling the police, and exchanging necessary information with the other driver, while also documenting the scene and contacting your insurance provider promptly to initiate the claims process and ensure assistance during this stressful time.

Deer Collision Risk Peaks in November and December

October 15, 2019

Encountering a deer on the road can evoke the "deer in the headlights" moment, highlighting the abruptness of the situation. With collisions being more prevalent from October to December due to increased deer activity, cautious driving is paramount to avoid accidents.

Top 10 Small Business Property and Liability Insurance Claims

April 24, 2019

Small businesses are significantly likely to face property or liability claims, with burglary and theft ranking as the most common, while reputational harm emerges as the costliest. To mitigate risks, business owners can implement preventive measures tailored to each potential claim scenario, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Thanks and Please Be Safe In the Kitchen & On the Road

November 20, 2017

During this season of gratitude, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has contributed to our continued success. We're especially grateful to our customers for entrusting Murphy Insurance Agency with the responsibility of serving you, and we remain dedicated to safeguarding your family, business, and valued possessions.

Why You Need Uninsured Motorists Coverage

May 19, 2016

When purchasing automobile insurance, being well-informed is essential for making intelligent decisions due to the various factors involved. One critical decision is whether to invest in uninsured motorists (UM) and underinsured motorists (UIM) coverage.

Reduce Your Exposure to Intersection Auto Accidents

September 25, 2015

Automobile crashes causing injuries and property damage are most prevalent in urban areas, with one study finding that 81 percent of crashes happen in cities. Additionally, approximately 43 percent of auto accidents are linked to intersections, as highlighted by another study.

Increase to Accident Surcharge Thresholds Limits Effective July 1, 2015

July 17, 2015

Governor Baker's signing of the Massachusetts 2016 State Budget on July 17, 2015, led to increased minor and major thresholds for surchargeable accidents, offering potential savings for drivers in the state who may be involved in at-fault accidents.

Massachusetts Senate Attempts to Increase Accident Surcharge Threshold Limits

June 4, 2015

The Massachusetts Senate has successfully incorporated an amendment into the 2016 State Budget, aiming to raise the Property Damage Threshold for both Minor and Major accidents. The proposed thresholds would increase to $1,001 for Minor Accidents and $5,001 for Major Accidents, potentially benefiting Massachusetts drivers by impacting surcharge points added to driving records, which can influence insurance premiums following at-fault accidents.

Gender Related to Type of Car Crash

September 15, 2014

The fear of experiencing a car accident is universal, heightened particularly for parents of teenage drivers as they navigate their child's initial ventures on the road. The specter of a collision looms heavily, casting a shadow over the anticipation of a teen's newfound driving privileges.

Don’t Risk a Lot For a Little

October 5, 2011

Severe accidents underscore the unpredictability of life's uncertainties. Murphy Insurance prioritizes your protection, urging our clients to secure comprehensive bodily injury coverage against financial risks. Connect with us today for personalized insurance solutions.

Five Insurance Lessons from ‘The Town’

August 18, 2011

Watching "The Town" might not immediately bring insurance to mind, but amidst the action-packed scenes, there are valuable lessons to learn. From ensuring higher Uninsured and Underinsured limits on your car insurance to the importance of timely life insurance, the movie underscores the need for comprehensive protection in the face of unexpected catastrophes.

What do I need to know in case of an auto accident? | Auto FAQ

Learn about our Auto Insurance Policies

Read our Auto Collision Blog Posts

Auto Insurance in Hudson, MA: What You Need to Know

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

Gap Insurance

10 Tips for What to Do at an Accident Scene

Deer Collision Risk Peaks in November and December

Top 10 Small Business Property and Liability Insurance Claims

Thanks and Please Be Safe In the Kitchen & On the Road

Why You Need Uninsured Motorists Coverage

Reduce Your Exposure to Intersection Auto Accidents

Increase to Accident Surcharge Thresholds Limits Effective July 1, 2015

Massachusetts Senate Attempts to Increase Accident Surcharge Threshold Limits

Gender Related to Type of Car Crash

Don’t Risk a Lot For a Little

Five Insurance Lessons from ‘The Town’

Contact Us

Communities

About Us

Get A Quote

Resources

Personal Insurance

Business Insurance

Legal

Read Our Blog

Recent Posts