No one expects to be involved in a car accident. Whether you are navigating the heavy traffic of PR-2, commuting through the hills of Camaseyes, or driving near the Aguadilla Mall, a collision can happen in seconds.
In Puerto Rico, the process for filing an insurance claim and handling the authorities is unique. Knowing exactly what to do can be the difference between a smooth claim process and an expensive, out-of-pocket headache.
Here is our local guide on how to handle a car accident in Aguadilla to protect your safety and your insurance rights.
Step 1: Immediate Safety and “Stay at the Scene”
Your safety is the priority. If you are involved in a crash on a high-speed road like the PR-107 or PR-2, follow these steps:
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers immediately. In Puerto Rico, medical emergencies are handled through ACAA, but your first call should be to 9-1-1.
- Move to a Safe Spot: If the vehicles are functional and blocking a dangerous intersection, move them to the shoulder. However, if there are serious injuries or the cars are immobilized, leave them and get yourself to a safe sidewalk or grassy area.
- Use Hazard Lights: Make your vehicle visible to other drivers coming from Isabela or Moca.
Step 2: Notify the Authorities (The “Querella”)
In Puerto Rico, a police report is often referred to as a “Querella.” Having a police report number is mandatory for almost all private “Full Cover” insurance claims.
- Call the Local Police: For accidents within Aguadilla, you may be dealing with the Aguadilla District Police or the Highway Patrol (División de Patrullas de Carreteras) if it happens on the main highway.
- Wait for the Officer: Do not leave the scene until an officer has arrived and documented the incident.
- Get the Number: Ensure the officer gives you the Número de Querella (report number) before you leave. You will need this to file your claim later.
Step 3: Document Everything (The “Amicable Report”)
While waiting for the police, you should gather your own evidence. In Puerto Rico, compulsory insurers often use a document called the “Informe Amistoso” (Friendly Accident Report). Even if you have private insurance, the information you collect here is vital.
What to capture with your phone:
- Damage Photos: Take clear pictures of all vehicles involved, including license plates.
- The Scene: Photograph street signs, traffic lights, and road conditions (potholes or lack of signage).
- The Other Driver’s Info: Take a photo of their driver’s license and their marbete (registration sticker) on the windshield.
- Witnesses: If anyone at Crash Boat Beach or a nearby business saw the accident, ask for their name and phone number.
Step 4: Understanding ACAA and Medical Help
If you are injured, remember that Puerto Rico operates under a No-Fault medical system via ACAA (Administración de Compensaciones por Accidentes de Automóviles).
- Coverage: ACAA covers medical expenses and rehabilitation for traffic accident victims regardless of who was at fault.
- Timeline: You typically need to visit a hospital or ACAA-affiliated clinic quickly to ensure your medical costs are covered under this public system.
Step 5: Filing the Insurance Claim
Now it’s time to call your local Aguadilla insurance agent.
- Private Insurance: If you have “Full Cover” or “Public Liability,” contact us immediately. We will use your Querella number to start the investigation.
- The “Compulsorio” Claim: If you only have the mandatory insurance (Seguro Obligatorio), you will likely need to process the claim through the ASC (Asociación de Suscripción Conjunta).
Pro Tip: Our agency helps our clients navigate this process so you don’t have to deal with the paperwork alone. We can guide you to authorized repair shops in the Aguadilla area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Admitting Fault: Never say “It was my fault” at the scene. Let the police and the insurance adjusters determine liability based on the facts.
- Accepting Cash Settlements: Someone might offer you cash to “forget the police.” Never do this. You may find out later that the car has hidden frame damage or that you have a delayed whiplash injury.
- Forgetting the Voucher: If you have private insurance, remind your agent you need to be reimbursed for the marbete insurance fee if it was already paid.
Conclusion: We Are Here for Aguadilla Drivers
Accidents are stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. Having a local insurance partner in Aguadilla means you have someone to call who knows the streets you drive every day.
Have you been in a recent accident or want to ensure you are properly covered? [Visit our Contact Page] or call our Aguadilla office at (787) XXX-XXXX. We’ll help you review your current policy and make sure you’re ready for whatever the road brings.
