How To Legally Stay Safe After A Car Accident
When it comes to driving your car, whether it’s preparing for a road trip, heading to work, picking up the kids, or getting groceries, you name it, to a degree, there can be challenges with staying safe.
You only have control of yourself and how you drive. You have zero control over how other people drive or even the road conditions themselves. But in the end, it’s not only keeping you physically safe, but you need to stay legally safe, too.
Honestly, even doing one thing wrong can ruin everything to the point you’re considered to be at fault, and you’re having to pay insurance premiums, fines, and anything else. Obviously, this is far from desirable. So, here’s what you need to know when it comes to being legally safe after a car accident.
Safety is Number One
No matter what, safety needs to be the biggest priority of all. So, before thinking about legal matters, ensure everyone involved in the accident is safe. Check for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary. Safety should always be the top priority. Call the ambulance ASAP if you can; if you have a smart car, it usually automatically detects if there is a car accident, and it will immediately send help.
No Matter What, Always Call the Police
Whether you’re planning on hiring a car accident claims lawyer or not, one thing is hands-down for certain and that’s going to be the fact that you’ll need to inform police of what happened. Lawyers are going to ask about this, too, so be sure to always do this. Be sure to always call the police to report the accident, even if it’s a minor one. A police report can be crucial for documenting the details of the incident, which can help in legal proceedings later. It’s going to look bad on you if you don’t do this. So, to protect yourself legally, you can’t skip on this.
You’ll Always Need to Exchange Information
This is honestly a given, and you have to do this: press it onto the other person, too, and be sure to get their info, too. You’re going to have to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. You’ll need to gather names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details. In the meantime, be sure to collect all evidence that you can get.
Never Discuss Fault
You’re going to have to be cautious about admitting fault or making statements about the accident, even if you believe you may be responsible. Leave the determination of fault to the authorities and insurance companies. You don’t want things to turn against you.
Avoid Posting or Discussing Anything Online
This is especially true when it comes to social media. Basically, anything you post online can have the potential to be helpful against you, even the people you’re texting/ emailing to. So, keep the discussion to at a minimum unless it’s your insurance company or your lawyer.
