What to do after a Car Accident that’s Not Your Fault
Being involved in a car crash, even when it’s not your fault, can be a traumatic and disorienting event. Knowing what steps to take in the aftermath is crucial for your safety, well-being, and potential compensation.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll outline what to do immediately following the accident, the essential information to gather, the importance of visiting a doctor, the potential claims you can make, and the benefits of using a personal injury solicitor to navigate the complexities of the legal process when proceeding with a car crash claim.
Table of Contents
What to Do Immediately Following the Accident
- Make sure everyone is safe: First and foremost, check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Turn on hazard lights and use warning triangles to alert other drivers.
- Call the Emergency Services :Dial emergency services to report the crash, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. Provide accurate details and follow any instructions given to you by the operator.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. Include names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance details, and vehicle registration numbers.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, licence plates, and the surrounding environment. Note any relevant details like road signs and traffic signals as well as the state of the road and weather conditions.
- Obtain Witness Information: If there are witnesses make sure you get their names and contact information. Their statements may prove valuable in determining fault.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Refrain from admitting fault or making statements that could be construed as an admission of guilt. Stick to factual information when discussing the accident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the crash to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide accurate details, but avoid making assumptions or statements that may jeopardise your claim.
What Information Should You Get to Help Your Claim
Gathering pertinent information is crucial for a successful insurance claim or potential legal action. Ensure you collect the following:
- Driver Information: Names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved.
- Vehicle Information: Make, model, colour, and registration numbers of all vehicles involved.
- Witness Information: Names and contact details of any witnesses.
- Accident Details: Date, time, and location of the accident, along with a detailed description of how it occurred
- Police Report: If the Police attend the scene it is important to get a copy of their report of the incident and any findings that result from the investigation.
- Photos and Videos: Take photos or videos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and any relevant road signs or signals.
Should You Visit a Doctor After the Accident?
Even if you don’t perceive immediate injuries, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries, especially internal or soft tissue injuries, may not manifest symptoms immediately. Visiting a doctor serves several purposes:
- Early Detection: Identifying injuries early allows for timely treatment and prevents potential complications.
- Documentation: Medical records provide crucial documentation for your personal injury claim, establishing a link between the accident and your injuries.
- Legal Considerations: Delayed medical attention may be used by insurance companies to dispute the severity or cause of your injuries.
What Sort of Things Can You Claim for After a Car Crash That Wasn’t Your Fault?
If the accident wasn’t your fault, you may be eligible to claim compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Costs associated with hospitalisation, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical treatment.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to time off work for medical treatment and recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for physical and emotional distress caused by the crash.
- Future Medical Expenses: Anticipated costs for ongoing medical treatment or rehabilitation.
- Diminished Earning Capacity: Compensation for reduced earning capacity due to long-term injuries.
The Benefits of Using a Personal Injury Solicitor
Enlisting the services of a personal injury attorney can significantly enhance your ability to navigate the complexities of the aftermath:
- Legal Expertise: Personal injury solicitors specialise in personal injury law, providing invaluable expertise to guide your claim.
- Maximising Compensation: A solicitor can assess the full extent of your damages and work to secure the maximum compensation possible.
- Handling Insurance Companies: Solicitors can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, ensuring you are not taken advantage of during settlement discussions.
- Legal Proceedings: If necessary, an attorney can initiate legal proceedings, representing your interests in court.
- Reducing Stress: Delegating the legal aspects to a professional allows you to focus on your recovery and well-being.
Conclusion
Experiencing a car accident that’s not your fault is a challenging and potentially life-altering event. Knowing what steps to take immediately, gathering essential information, seeking prompt medical attention, understanding your potential claims, and enlisting the help of a personal injury attorney are crucial components of navigating the aftermath successfully.
By taking proactive and informed steps, you can increase your chances of securing the compensation you deserve and moving forward on the path to recovery.
At Tylers, our qualified no win no fee solicitors are well versed in all aspects of car crash compensation claims. When you use our expert legal services, our team will guide you through the process and try and ensure you gain the personal injury compensation you are entitled to. Get in touch with team here at Tylers on freephone 0800 699 0079 or use our easy to use contact form and we’ll be happy to assist.