First, make sure you and your passengers are safe. If anyone is injured or the accident is blocking traffic, call 911 immediately.

Once everyone is safe, here's what to do:

Call FirstMark. Before you call the insurance carrier, call us. Our claims team will walk you through exactly what to do next, help you file your claim, and advocate on your behalf throughout the entire process. That's what we're here for.

Document the scene. Take photographs of all vehicle damage, the surrounding area, traffic signs, road conditions, and any visible injuries. The more photos, the better — you can never have too many.

Gather the other driver's information. Get their full name, phone number, insurance carrier, and policy number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.

File a police report if needed. If there are injuries, significant property damage, or any dispute about what happened, call the police and request a report. This documentation can be critical during the claims process.

Protect your personal information. Share your name and insurance information with the other party, but do not give out your home address, share a copy of your driver's license, or discuss who was at fault at the scene.

Your FirstMark claims concierge will guide you through every step from here — from filing to follow-up to resolution. You're never navigating this alone.

Call FirstMark first. Our claims team will help you understand your coverage, guide you through the filing process, and connect you with trusted home remediation companies who can respond quickly and do the job right.

Prevent further damage. Under your homeowner's policy, you have a duty to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage to your property. This might mean tarping a damaged roof, shutting off water to a burst pipe, or boarding up a broken window. Keep all receipts.

Document everything. Take photographs and video of all damage before any cleanup or repairs begin. Document every room and every angle. If personal belongings are damaged, photograph those too. This documentation is essential for your claim.

Don't throw anything away. Even if something looks like it's beyond repair, keep it until your adjuster has had a chance to inspect it. Discarding damaged items before they're documented can complicate your claim.

Your FirstMark claims concierge will be with you every step of the way — coordinating with the carrier, connecting you with remediation professionals, and making sure your claim is handled the way it should be. Our job is to take the stress off your plate so you can focus on getting your home back to normal.

Claim timelines can vary depending on the type of claim and the details involved. Some claims may be resolved quickly, while others can take more time if additional documentation or investigation is required. FirstMark Insurance Group can help you stay informed throughout the process and answer questions along the way.

Filing a claim may impact your premium, but it depends on factors such as the type of claim, your claims history, and your insurance carrier’s guidelines. Not every claim results in a rate increase. FirstMark Insurance Group can help review your policy and discuss any potential impacts based on your situation.