Being involved in a vehicle collision can be physically, emotionally and financially devastating. However, if you were at fault, you might be feeling a sense of doom waiting to find out what happens next. Here are a few crucial steps you must take immediately following a car accident, both at the scene and once you arrive home.
After the Accident
The first few minutes after a car accident are critical, whether you were the cause or not. However, if you're worried you will be held legally responsible, it's vital you take the necessary steps to ensure you are protected if brought to court.
Doing or saying the wrong thing can be more potentially-litigious than you might think, which is why it's vital to take these steps after you emerge from your vehicle:
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Never Admit You're at Fault – Being a kind-hearted individual, your first instinct might be to see if the other driver and passengers are okay. Unfortunately, this benevolent act can be seen as an admission of guilt, so it's best to instead steer clear of the other driver, even if they're not leaving you alone.
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Know When to Speak Up – Don't hesitate to contact the authorities, even if you believe you were at fault. Don't engage the other driver or witnesses and instead, speak to the police. Don't skim over the details of the accident, even if they make you look responsible and instead, be completely honest with the authorities.
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Pay Attention to the Scene – Grab your smartphone and begin taking pictures of the accident. Note the time and, if possible, start writing down everything you can remember. Even though the accident was your fault, having a clear recollection can ensure the other party doesn't exaggerate the details of the scene for their own financial gain.
It's important to contact the authorities, however, if you or your passengers were injured, don't hesitate to seek medical attention before anything else.
Contacting the Insurance Company
After the smoke has cleared and you've left the scene of the accident, the first phone call you should make is to your car insurance provider. Depending on your coverage, your medical and mechanics bills could still be covered, even if you were completely at fault.
However, before you begin panicking or pick a fight with the agent over the phone, here is some critical information you should know about most insurance companies, their policies and your coverage:
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Learn About Your Policy – Even a minor accident can create huge medical and repair bills, so chances are your first concern will probably be how much money you can expect from the insurance company. For example, if you have liability insurance, your provider will only cover the cost to repair the other driver's vehicle. However, if you have collision coverage, which is more expensive, the insurance company will generally cover the cost to repair or replace your vehicle.
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Will My Rates Increase? – Unfortunately, according to an independent research group, the Insurance Information Institute, if you're at fault, there is a strong chance your insurance provider will raise your rates. Depending on where you live and the insurance company's policies, you might be eligible for a reduced rate within a few years after the accident, if your driving record remains pristine.
No matter how serious or minor the automobile accident, it's never advisable to deal with the other driver's insurance company or lawyers without legal representation of your own. Hiring an attorney after a car accident, whether you're at fault or not, is one of the best ways to ensure your financial future isn't put in serious jeopardy. For more information, contact a local law firm, like Gabrielson Law Offices, Ltd.
