4 Essential Steps to Take When Someone Hits Your Car
What do you do when someone hits your car? That somewhat depends on the specific type of accident we’re talking about. For instance, perhaps you were in your car when it happened, and you sustained some injuries. And maybe the other driver sped away and left you there. In this case, you should call 911 right away.
On the other hand, perhaps your parked car was hit while you were shopping for groceries. Then, you get out to the parking lot and discover that your car is wrecked, but there’s a note on the windshield with the other driver’s information. This is a completely different situation that doesn’t require the help of emergency services. However, 3 essential rules must be followed after any car accident. You’ll find these listed below. Read on to learn more.
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Gather and Report All the Information You Can
Hopefully, the driver who hits your car will remain in the area or at least leave his/her information. If so, here’s rule number 1 after a car accident: do not admit fault. That is, you might say, “It’s my fault; I should have parked somewhere else,” to be polite. But such a statement is legally binding and removes legal fault from the other driver.
With that in mind, speak to the other driver. Find out from them all the details of how they hit your car plus their insurance information. Also, take pictures of all the damage done to both vehicles and any other property. Then, report this information to the police and your insurance company.
When to Call 911
The accident counts as an emergency if:
- You see the other driver hit your car and drive off (try to get their license plate number and vehicle information;)
- You find your parked car damaged, but the other driver is gone and has left no information;
- You were in the car and have sustained injuries.
Obviously, a hit and run is a serious crime that must be reported right away by calling 911. In these instances, try to get eyewitness accounts if you can. (Witnesses are legally obligated to comply.)
Get Medical Attention For Any Injuries
As stated, you need emergency care right away if you sustained any injuries from the accident. Either call 911 or get to an emergency room yourself if you are safely able to do so. Furthermore, the information recorded via the doctor’s evaluation is important for legal reasons after the fact.
Get Legal Representation
If the accident is minor (minimal cosmetic damage to the car, no injuries sustained, no hit-and-run), you probably don’t need legal representation. You and the other driver can settle matters through your insurance companies.
For the more serious situations described above, hire a car accident attorney. They will determine the best course of action and represent you in court until you receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
Follow These Steps If Someone Hits Your Car
Don’t lose this guide or forget these steps. Bookmark this page so you can refer to it the next time someone hits your car. Want some more great advice? We’ve got tips on everything from choosing the best hand sanitizer to hiring a Hypnotherapist Manchester to quit smoking. Learn all this and more by checking out our Tips and Advice blog.
