DCI News

Jefferson City, Mo. - The Missouri Department of Insurance is offering a new smartphone app that walks drivers through the crucial steps to take if they're in a car accident. Although car accidents happen every day, a recent survey from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners showed many Americans don't know exactly what to do after an accident.

The NAIC's new WreckCheck mobile application, available at insurance.mo.gov, helps remove the guesswork. It's free and available for iPhone and Android users.

While drivers need to share information, the recent survey revealed consumers aren't sure about exactly how much personal information to exchange. Consumers generally need only share their names and car insurance information. It's unnecessary and could be risky to share additional information like driver's license numbers and home addresses.

"After a car accident, it can be difficult to remember all the proper steps to take," said John M. Huff, director of the Missouri Department of Insurance. "The WreckCheck app is a quick reference that explains what information to share, protecting your safety and helping your insurance claim go more smoothly."

The WreckCheck app walks users through the step-by-step process of creating their own accident report. It also provides tips for staying calm, safe and smart on the road, and makes it easy to capture accident photos and collect the necessary information to file an insurance claim. Additionally, the app lets users email a completed accident report directly to themselves and their insurance agents.

Consumers with complaints or questions about insurance claims or policy provisions can call the Department of Insurance Consumer Hotline at 800-726-7390 or file a complaint at insurance.mo.gov.