Car accidents are unfortunate events that occur quite often. Because of the risk of a car accident caused by another driver, it is important to know what to do when you get in a minor car accident to take after this event. Unfortunately, many people do not know what to do after an accident, because, firstly, they never expected an accident.
However, even the safest drivers need to know what to do when you get in a car accident so that they have all the information they need to apply to the insurance company.
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- Get out of the car and go to a safe area, where there is no danger of other movement.
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- Make sure no one, including you, is hurt. If someone is injured, immediately seek medical attention by calling 9-1-1.
Contact the police, no matter how insignificant the accident may seem. For legal and insurance reasons, it is important to have an official and accurate police report in the file. When the police arrive, ask how to get a copy of the accident report. Do not leave the scene until the police report.
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- Collect information from the other side. Enter the name, address, telephone number, insurance company, vehicle description and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the other party. It is important to take into account the VIN, and not just the license plate, since most insurance companies only have this information.
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- Do not discuss the details of the accident with anyone other than the police. No matter how restless you are, resist the temptation to talk about responsibility or guilt with any other person involved. Anything you say about the accident can be used against you if the other side decides to sue.
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- Call the car insurance company. Let them know the details of the incident as soon as possible, even if you are still at the scene.
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- Contact your auto insurance agent. Call your insurance company immediately, even if you are still at the scene. In some cases, a police officer may provide more accurate information to your insurance agent.
- Contact a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer can help determine who is at fault in the incident and can help you initiate the necessary legal actions. With the help of an experienced and qualified car accident lawyer, you can receive compensation from the party responsible for the accident to cover your losses.