You follow traffic laws, practice safe driving habits and still the unthinkable happens: You are involved in a traffic collision. What happens next?

Some advance preparation and knowing what to do if an accident occurs can help save lives and also make your claims experience a smooth one.

Though no one wants to be involved in a traffic collision, some preparation can help get you back on the road again. Before an accident: Always keep your insurance information in your car. California law requires proof of insurance, and it is best to keep a copy of this in the glove compartment.

Keep a pen and small notepad in your car. In the event of an accident, it cannot only help drivers exchange information, but it is also handy for keeping notes of the incident for your insurance claim.

Consider purchasing an inexpensive disposable or digital camera in your car. Photographs of the accident scene can be helpful in settling your insurance claim.

If an accident occurs: Stop your car and find out if anyone is injured. Call the police or highway patrol. Tell them how many people were hurt and the types of injuries. The police will notify the nearest medical unit.

Try to protect the accident scene. Take reasonable steps to protect your car from further damage, such as setting up flares, getting the car off the road and calling a tow truck.

Ask the investigating officer where you can obtain a copy of the police report. You will probably need it when you submit your claim to your insurance company.

Take notes. Use the pen and paper kept in the car to write down the

--Names and addresses of all drivers and passengers involved in the accident;
--License plate numbers; o Make and model of each car; o Driver's license numbers;
--Insurance identifications; o Names and addresses of witnesses; and
--Names and badge numbers of police officers or other emergency personnel.

If you run into an unattended vehicle or object, try to find the owner. If you can't, leave a note containing your name, address and phone number.  Record the details of the accident. Remember that abandoning the scene of an accident, no matter how small, is a crime.

How do I file a claim?
Call your insurance agent as soon as possible, regardless of who is at fault.
Find out whether you're covered for this loss. Even if the accident appears minor, it is important that you let your insurance company know about the incident.

Ask your agent or company representative how to proceed and what forms or documents are needed to support your claim. Your insurance company will require a "proof of claim" form and, if there is one, a copy of the police report.

Increasingly, companies allow you to monitor the progress of your claim on their Web site. Supply the information your insurer requests. Fill out the claim form carefully. Keep good records. Get the names and phone numbers of everyone you speak with and copies of any bills related to the accident.

Ask your insurance agent or company representative:
--Does my policy contain a time limit for filing claims and submitting bills?
--Is there a time limit for resolving claims disputes?
--If I need to submit additional information, is there a time limit?
--When can I expect the insurance company to contact me?
--Do I need to get repair estimates for the damage to my car?
--Will my policy pay for a rental car while my car is being repaired? If so, how much?