A Guide on What to Do After a Car Accident That is Not Your Fault

Car accidents happen when you least expect them- never would you wake up one morning and expect to be involved in a crash. But accidents happen, such is the nature of life. 

In fact, hundreds of car accidents happen every day across America, with thousands of fatalities every year. Because of their unpredictable nature, car accidents can be severely traumatic- whether you’re at fault or not. 

So with this in mind, here’s what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault…  

What to Do After a Car Accident That’s Not Your Fault

The fact of the matter is that you should always drive defensively. This not only reduces your chances of being involved in an accident but also reduces the likelihood of it being your fault. 

And when it comes to an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, being at fault puts you on the back foot. However, if you’re ever the victim of an accident, you’ll need an expert to fight in your corner. Visit Armando Personal Injury Law for more.

Here are a few important pointers to keep in mind if you’re ever involved in an accident that is not your fault: 

1. Don’t Ever Flee the Scene 

Making a mad dash from the scene of an accident, no matter how minor, is illegal in all states across the U.S. 

You must remain at the scene of the accident until law enforcement officers arrive to take down all relevant details. Even if the other driver speeds off from the scene, do not follow suit. 

2. Call the Police Right Away 

Once you have exited the vehicle and ensured everyone is unharmed, it’s important to contact the authorities immediately. 

The police account of what happened will officially go on record and can help when filing an insurance or personal injury claim. 

If you remain at the scene and explain what happened to the police, this will only bolster your case if you aim to file for compensation. Remember to write down the badge numbers of the officer’s who attended to the scene, as well. 

3. Exchange Necessary Information 

If the other driver remains at the scene, you must make an effort to first, check they’re ok, and second, exchange all relevant details. 

The other driver’s information is imperative in building a valid case if the accident was not your fault.

Record information such as their full name, phone number, insurance company information and contact, plate number, and driver’s license details.

4. Talk to Witnesses at the Scene 

If you noticed anyone who witnessed the accident, make sure to pull them aside and ask them what they saw. 

In doing so, ask for their own recollection of how the accident happened and write down these details. Often, a third-person perspective will help in putting detail together in your own head – and this also bolsters your case. 

Remember to get their contact information if possible, too! 

5. Take Photographic Evidence of Everything

Photo evidence is really going to ramp up the efficacy and strength of your compensation claim.

So make sure to take photos of everything you can while you’re on the scene- especially if law enforcement does not arrive. This includes both cars, the local environment, weather, skid marks, car damage, license plates, and injuries, if any. 

6. Contact Your Insurance Providers 

This may sound like an unnecessary step if the accident was not your fault. But it’s still imperative to let your insurance company know you were involved in an accident.

While you’re at it, you can also check that the other driver’s insurance coverage coordinates with your own. Ultimately, this will help to speed up your compensation claim. 

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