AAA Insurance has added a new free mobile application for
Android devices that will walk drivers through the process of collecting
information, taking photos and requesting a tow truck after a vehicle crash.
An increasing number of insurers are coming out with these mobile apps,
which consumers find incredibly convenient. The problem, in some
collision repairers' minds, is that such apps make it easier for
insurers to steer consumers to their preferred shops, since the insurer
becomes the first point of contact. Recognizing this, some collision
repair facilities have begun offering their own customers mobile apps so
that they become the first point of contact and minimize the chance
that the customer will be steered.
The steps AAA recommends are:
• Taking photos of the crash scene and damage to vehicles
and property
• Documenting vehicle models and people involved in the
crash
• Documenting the location of the crash
• Identifying damage to vehicles
• Documenting witnesses and police report details
AAA says the new app also provides one-touch access to
call police and emergency services, to request a tow from AAA and to contact
the AAA insurance claims department. The app allows users to store their auto
insurance company's contact information, policy number, drivers on the policy
and vehicles on the policy. In addition, users can view a summary of the
traffic crash details and e-mail a report straight from their iPhone and
Android devices.