Causing a car accident can happen in an instant. The experience is scary and upsetting for everyone involved. Right after the accident, you are likely to be nervous. However, you need to be as calm as possible, so you know what the next steps are. The following are some things to keep in mind if you cause a car accident.
Stay at the Scene
Above all, do not leave the accident scene. Although the accident was not on purpose, leaving the scene before the police arrive will result in a hit and run charge. You can lose your driving privileges, pay fines, and possibly spend time in jail.
Move Your Car
If possible, move your car out of dangerous oncoming traffic. This may seem counterintuitive since the police need to make a report based on the position of the vehicles. However, if you are on a busy roadway, your car becomes a hazard to additional people on the road. Do not move your car far—just move to an empty shoulder. Before you move the car, take a photo of the scene so the police can see exactly where the cars were positioned.
Make Sure There Are No Immediate Injuries
Check yourself to see if you have any apparent injuries. Check on your passengers and the occupants of the other car also. If you seem like you are not hurt, do not think you can skip medical care. You should definitely seek care, as you will likely feel some pain once the adrenaline wears off.
Call Law Enforcement
The next step is to call the police if they have not yet been contacted. You and the driver of the other car will need a report for insurance purposes. If you are sued for damages, your attorney will want to see the report as well.
Call Your Attorney
Once the accident is over and you have gone your separate ways, you should give your attorney a call to let him or her know about what happened. The other driver may choose to file a lawsuit against your insurance for his or her damages. He or she may also choose to sue you personally if your insurance company does not provide their ideal settlement figure. If this happens, your attorney will have the necessary information to investigate the accident and help build a case for your defense. The goal is to not make you pay for more than what you are responsible for.
For more information and tips, contact your local personal injury attorney today.
