Every year, thousands of people find themselves involved in car accidents that were not their fault. These unexpected incidents can be overwhelming and may leave you uncertain about what to do next. It’s crucial to remember that the actions you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your well-being and any potential legal recourse you may have. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do after a car accident that is not your fault.
Ensure Everyone’s Safety
The safety and well-being of all individuals involved in the accident should be your top priority. As soon as the collision occurs, check yourself for injuries and assess the condition of your passengers. If it is safe, exit your vehicle and check on the occupants of the other car(s) involved. If there are injuries, immediately call 911 to request medical assistance. Even seemingly minor injuries should not be underestimated, as some symptoms may not manifest until later. Remember to stay calm and assist others while waiting for medical professionals to arrive.
Contact Law Enforcement
Regardless of the accident’s severity, it’s essential to report the incident to the police. Call the local law enforcement agency to the accident scene, and make sure to obtain a copy of the police report. This report will serve as an official record of the accident, which may be used for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
Exchange Information
Following a car accident, regardless of who is at fault, it is imperative to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Gather the following details:
- Full name and contact information of the other driver(s).
- Insurance company name and policy number.
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate number.
- Names and contact information of any witnesses.
Be courteous and respectful during these interactions, but avoid discussing fault or blame with the other driver(s). Leave it to the insurance companies and legal authorities to determine responsibility.
Document the Scene
In today’s digital age, it’s easier than ever to document the accident scene. Use your smartphone or camera to take photos and videos of:
- The position and damage of the vehicles involved.
- Skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs or signals.
- Injuries sustained by you or your passengers.
- Any other relevant details, such as weather conditions.
These visual records can serve as valuable evidence during insurance claims or potential legal actions. By following these initial steps after a car accident of which you are not at fault, you can ensure the safety of everyone involved and lay the foundation for a smoother recovery process. Remember, it’s essential to consult with a Colorado car accident attorney to navigate the legal complexities that may arise in the aftermath of the accident. Once you’ve completed the aforementioned steps, medical attention and legal action should be your main areas of focus.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, it is critical to seek medical attention following a car accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not exhibit immediate symptoms. Visiting a healthcare professional promptly not only ensures your well-being but also provides a medical record of your injuries in the event that they turn out to be more serious than expected. Medical records can play a crucial role in your insurance claim or legal case in a car accident. Follow your doctor’s advice and keep all medical bills and records organized. This documentation will help demonstrate the extent of your injuries and the related expenses.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with the details of the accident and follow their instructions regarding the claims process. Be honest and thorough in your communication with your insurer. Keep in mind that you should not admit fault or discuss blame with your insurance company or the other party’s insurer. Stick to the facts and let them handle the investigation. The right Colorado car accident attorney can help ensure that you don’t inadvertently compromise your rights during these conversations.
Preserve Evidence
Preserving evidence related to the accident is crucial. In addition to the photos and videos you took at the scene, keep copies of all documents, including:
- Police reports.
- Medical records and bills.
- Repair estimates for your vehicle.
- Correspondence with the insurance companies.
- Receipts for any out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
This documentation will be valuable when negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing a legal claim if necessary.
Find a Colorado Car Accident Attorney
Knowing what to do after a car accident that is not your fault can be complex and overwhelming. Insurance companies may minimize their liability, and you may face challenges in obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages. This is where Franklin D. Azar & Associates can be of tremendous assistance. At Franklin D. Azar & Associates, we understand the challenges you may encounter and the importance of protecting your rights in all types of accidents. For nearly forty years the attorneys at Franklin D. Azar & Associates have helped thousands of injured people obtain complete and timely compensation for their losses. Our proven track record and expertise have allowed us to grow into the largest personal injury law firm in Colorado, with offices in Aurora, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Denver, Fort Collins, Grand Junction, Greeley, Lakewood, Littleton, Longmont, Pueblo, and Thornton. If you’ve been injured in a rideshare, bus, car, truck, bicycle, or motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Please call the car accident attorneys at FDAzar day or night at 800-716-9032, or contact us here for a free consultation and no-obligation evaluation of your case.
