Even minor car accidents require prompt action to protect your legal rights and ensure a smooth resolution. Just as you would in any car crash or collision, some immediate steps should be taken as soon as the accident happens.
This guide outlines essential steps to take after a minor collision.
Check for Injuries
First and foremost, immediately check yourself and your passengers (if any) for injuries. The adrenaline spike may not make the injuries or symptoms immediately apparent.
If anyone is injured, 911 assistance is essential. Avoid making statements about your condition until a thorough evaluation has been conducted.
Get to Safety
If the car can still be driven, take it to a safe location off the road to prevent further accidents. If the car is not drivable, you and your passengers should move to a safe area on the roadside or sidewalk, leaving the car in its spot.
Document the Accident
Gather evidence by taking photographs of all vehicles involved from multiple angles. Capture license plates, close-ups of damage, and the surrounding scene. Additionally, document any visible injuries sustained in the accident.
Call 911
Once it has been documented, make a call to law enforcement. Dial 911 for an emergency or call a non-emergency services line to request a police officer. Filing an official accident report protects your legal rights and facilitates insurance claims.
Exchange Contact and Relevant Information
Be calm and professional about this. Exchange contact and, where necessary, insurance details with the other party in the accident. If applicable, get their full name, address, contact number, insurance company name, policy number, and passenger information. Likewise, provide your information when requested.
Give a Statement
When asked to state the accident, cooperate fully with law enforcement. Do not apologize or admit your fault, even if you are fully or partly to blame. Get every witness’ name and contact information for future reference.
Remain at the Accident Scene Until Cleared to Leave
Remain at the accident scene, unless medical attention is required, until law enforcement permits you to leave. Leaving without proper authorization may be considered a criminal offense.
Tell Your Insurance Company
While on the scene or after it has all been concluded, contact your car insurance company immediately and report the accident, providing all relevant details and evidence, such as the pictures taken. Notifying your insurer within the specified time frame could cancel the policy.
Why Should My Insurance Company Be Contacted Immediately After a Minor Car Accident?
It does not matter how minor the car accident is; it is still an accident. If the repair costs for minor damages exceed your deductible, speak to and file a claim with your insurance company. Alternatively, you can file a bodily injury claim with their insurance company if the other driver is at fault.
Also, note that minor injuries resulting from the accident may warrant you filing an insurance claim with your insurance company for a personal injury protection policy for potential future complications.
Conclusion
“Do not wait any longer after a car accident—major or minor because time spent delaying may have consequences,” says Attorney R. Andrew Rodriguez of Felix Gonzalez Accident and Injury Law firm. Take immediate action after a minor car accident to protect your rights, ensure a smooth resolution, and get the compensation you deserve.
