Quiz time: how many car accidents occur in the U.S. each year? Answer: over six million. That’s a crazy figure, but that means there are a lot of opportunities to do the wrong thing or be taken advantage of. In the heat of the moment—whether it is a fender bender or an accident that’s much more serious, tempers can flare causing a normally level-headed person to make mistakes they’re not prone to otherwise.
If you find yourself in this position, remember these 6 steps to take after a car accident.
STOP. Seriously, never ever drive away from an accident. Even if the car was unoccupied, if you’re caught fleeing the scene (many parking lots have cameras now), law enforcement will seek every pursuable avenue to find the culprit. It is every licensed driver’s “duty to stop”.
In Kentucky, a leaving the scene of an accident is a Class A misdemeanor, which is punishable by up to a year in jail and/or a fine of $20 to $2,000.
If someone is seriously injured or killed and you flee, it can be a Class D felony, punishable by 1-5 years in jail and/or a fine of $20 to $2,000.
In Tennessee, it can lead to a Class E felony, and no less than a Class C misdemeanor. The fines and jail time for these offenses can vary, but it will not be cheap.
Call the police immediately. Even if it is a simple fender bender, get a law enforcement officer on the scene as quickly as possible. Dial 911, inform them of what occurred, and they will dispatch an officer to the scene. When he or she arrives, detail to them exactly what happened. Do not speculate, guess, or infer. If there are discrepancies between your story and the other person’s, let the officer investigate.
If you’re asked if you’re hurt, consider saying “I’m not sure” as the pain from an accident is often not felt until after the adrenaline and shock wear off.
Protect the scene. If anyone is severely hurt in the accident, don’t move your vehicles. If there is no severe injury apparent, move any vehicle involved to the shoulder of the road and wait until an officer arrives. Having a neutral third party that’s a state official will help with the insurance claims.
Take pictures. Everyone has a camera on their phone. Use it! Photographic evidence helps when dealing with personal injuries and damages to your vehicle. Just be sure you aren’t interfering with the officer’s investigation in doing so.
Seek medical attention. The damage caused to you won’t immediately be apparent, so getting checked out by a doctor as soon as possible is vital. Don’t assume everything is fine, seek a professional opinion.
Report the accident to your insurance company and your attorney. Notify them as soon as possible to move your claim through their process quickly and efficiently. During these times is when it is most beneficial to know your coverage benefits. Consulting with an attorney is highly recommended to protect your rights and keep your best interests in mind.
Wilson Law Firm, PLLC is ready to be that team that looks out for your best interests. If you need us, here is how to find us:
To get in touch with us, give us a call! In Kentucky, call (270) 388-9951, or for our Tennessee office call (931) 647-9976. You can also like our Facebook page, or shoot us an e-mail! We would be happy to assist you.
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