While still at the scene, call the police and wait for them to arrive and file a report. In it, you will be able to read their determination regarding who was at fault for the accident. You may discover something that you may already have suspected: that the accident was not your fault. Should you call your insurance in this case? Read on to find out.
Being involved in a car accident may fill your head with questions about what you should or shouldn’t do and what is more important to accomplish first. If you or your passengers are injured, your priority should be to seek medical care. Call an ambulance and have them take you to the nearest emergency room. Even if your injuries are not immediately evident, get a medical checkup as soon as you can.
Work with a Car Accident Lawyer
Talking to a car accident lawyer may work in your favor when you are dealing with so many difficult issues at once, like your injuries, how they have impacted your life, and the fact that you may have had to stop working while getting treatment for your injuries. Your lawyer can be your voice with the insurance and the other driver, and their negotiating skills may yield better results than trying to do all this on your own. Your attorney will investigate the accident, gather all evidence, and help you fight for your rights.
Why call your insurance when the accident was not your fault?
There are several reasons you must call your insurance company after an accident. Among them:
Your insurance may require it – If you read the fine print of your policy, you may find that they want you to call them every time there is an accident, no matter whose fault it is.
There might be other available coverage – You may need these funds to help you cover some of your expenses and other damages.
Faster car repair – if you must wait for the other driver’s insurance company, you may discover that months will go by with no funds coming your way. Your own insurance may help you with this and get your car repaired much faster.
Help with medical bills – Instead of paying for some of your medical treatments out of pocket, you may get your insurance to cover some of these bills. This may happen faster than waiting for the other driver’s insurance to come through.
What information will your insurance need?
When you contact your insurance company, be prepared to provide some information such as:
- The name, address, and phone numbers of everyone involved in the accident.
- Insurance companies and policy numbers of all drivers involved.
- Time, day, and location of the accident.
- A copy of the police report or the name of the police officer that was present at the scene.
- Full description of your injuries. If you have pictures, give them those as well.
- Full description of the damage to your car and other property that may also have been damaged.
Take the time to describe everything clearly and truthfully to your insurance. Any discrepancies or inconsistencies may result in your claim being denied. Don’t speculate; just state the facts.
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