When is it necessary to call the police after a car accident
The most common statement any novice driver gets acquainted with is, “If you haven’t been in a car accident, it’s only a matter of time before you are involved in one.” This is because the average driver will be involved in three to four accidents over the course of their driving span.
No matter how experienced or careful a driver you are, being involved in a car accident is something you cannot statistically avoid. When you are involved in a wreck, it’s almost impossible to keep yourself in check and know what to do; this makes it imperative for you to call the police whenever you are involved in any form of accident.
As you get more experienced in the driving department, you will come across countless drivers that are reluctant to involve the authorities. Their reasons will stem from the damage seems minor to no one is hurt. Don’t fall into the temptation of plainly exchanging contact information and taking a few photos. What you do after an accident determines how any subsequent claims will be settled.
These are the reasons why it is necessary to call the police after a car wreck.
• When it comes to proving who was at fault, the accident report is vital. The other party may choose to be dishonest and claim they were not to blame for the wreck. Having a police officer on the scene will make it difficult for either party to shift blame or even deny the car accident ever took place.
• Most insurance companies will require the police report for them to pay out your claim. Meaning that, if you don’t call the authorities you may lose your right to any claims ensuring you suffer the costs and any related consequences of the accident alone.
• Calling the police to the scene of the accident will give you solid proof of who was at fault as the specifics of the accident are noted on the police accident report.
• The authorities are trained to identify drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. When you call the police to the scene of the accident, they are mandated by law to evaluate the driver’s state at the time; this is crucial to your case because violations of the law are proof of negligence.
It is also important to know that when you are involved in an accident, there are a few things you should remember. They include:
• Do not accept any form of monetary compensation from the at-fault party as compensation for damages.
• Get the other party’s information such as their insurance details and license plate.
• Never admit to being at fault when speaking to the other driver or any witness. Also, try to speak less before the authorities arrive on the scene.
• Get yourself check out by a medical professional. Injuries and complications may manifest long after the accident.
In conclusion, be sure to contact your legal team, they will walk you through what otherwise would be a difficult experience.
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