One question we hear often is what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault.
This is an excellent question because the decisions you make in the hours and days after a car accident can either bolster your case for compensation or harm it.
In this blog post, we outline the steps to take so that you can maximize your compensation from the at-fault driver.
Get Pictures of the Damage
If you can move your cars after the accident, you need to get them to the side of the road so that you don’t block traffic. But you also want to carefully document how the accident unfolded. Remember, the driver who is responsible is unlikely to accept responsibility, so you need proof of where your car was hit.
To document the crash, walk around each vehicle involved in the crash and take pictures. If necessary, zoom in so that you capture the damage. You should also take pictures of any debris in the road or skid marks since they can yield important clues about how the accident occurred.
If at all possible, try to get a snap of the cars before you move them to the side of the road. This picture will show where the cars ended up, which can help an attorney determine who hit who.
Call the Police
An officer will go to the scene and file a police report on the collision. These reports contain helpful information, such as:
- Where and when the crash occurred
- The identities of any witnesses
- Who was involved in the crash
- Each driver’s version of events
Try to get a copy of this police report or ask for the report number. Or, let us get your police report for you for free.
Never Admit Responsibility
Any article about what to do after a car accident that’s not your fault would be inadequate without this key piece of advice: you cannot admit responsibility or say anything that could be interpreted that way.
For example, never say:
- “I’m so sorry.” An insurance adjuster will interpret this as you taking responsibility for the crash.
- “I never even saw you!” This sounds like you are admitting that you weren’t paying sufficient attention while driving.
- “I’m perfectly fine.” If you later develop injuries, an adjuster could use this statement to claim you made up your injuries.
Instead, wait patiently by your car for the police to arrive. You don’t want to be rude, but you don’t want to slip up and say something you shouldn’t, either.
GET HELP WITH YOUR CASE
Let’s discuss your case. Our law firm offers free consultations.
Obtain Prompt Medical Treatment
Going to the doctor is necessary so that you can recover as much as possible.
Visiting the doctor also allows you to fully document your injuries, including the pain that you are feeling. Some injuries are delayed, so go to the doctor as soon as you sense something is wrong.
Speak to a Kentucky Car Accident Lawyer Now
This was a general guide on what to do after a car accident that is not your fault. Of course, all cases are different.
For individualized advice about your situation, please contact the Harville Law Office today. We can run through your options for receiving compensation and begin building a solid case for you right away.
Please contact us to schedule a free case review.
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