What to Do After a Car Accident (Checklist)

By on December 27th, 2016

It can be difficult to immediately figure out what to do after a car accident. After all, this is obviously an extremely stressful experience that is even worse if someone is seriously hurt. If you’re ever in this situation, however, you’ll need to compose yourself as best you can and take the necessary steps to make sure your rights are protected.

Here at Weisberg Cummings, P.C. we’ve developed an insurance card sized checklist based on our years of experience as car accident attorneys for you to print and keep in your glovebox. You’re going to be reaching for your insurance card after an accident, let us help you starting right at the scene.

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click image to print!

Get Medical Help

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you or anyone else at the accident scene has been seriously injured. However, even if you seem to feel fine, you should still see a doctor. There are many types of injuries that don’t manifest themselves for weeks after they are sustained, such as back or neck injuries.

If you wait too long to get help and are involved in legal action due to the accident, the opposition could claim you were hurt well after the accident occurred.

Stay at the Scene of the Accident

Is it bad to leave the scene of a collision? The answer to this question is a resounding YES. You should never leave an accident scene, even if it is only minor. Always exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and take photographs of the scene. This could be a major help should any legal action be taken and you need evidence to prove your side of the story.

When it comes to what to do after a car crash, exchanging information is one of the most important things you can do. You’ll not only need the names, telephone numbers and addresses of everyone else involved, but you’ll also need to get contact information of any witnesses who might have seen the accident.

Get in Touch With the Police

Once anyone who is seriously injured gets the medical attention they need, you’ll want to be sure you talk with the police — either in person if they’re on the scene or on the phone. You want to be sure a police report is filed because you may need it to be able to file a claim with your insurance provider.

We have a tendency to apologize when things happen and we’re not quite sure what to do. However, it’s important never to admit fault for the accident to the police or the other party involved. If you do, that statement could later be used against you in court. A simple, I’m sorry, although sincere, can be used against you. Always refrain from any phrases that could put you at fault.

Car Insurance FAQ

Pennsylvania is a “no-fault” state when it comes to determining who bears financial responsibility when a car collision occurs. No matter who was to blame, you will probably need to file a claim with your insurance carrier to obtain compensation for any injuries you may have suffered.

But if you chose traditional insurance coverage, you may also be able to sue the at-fault driver. Insurance coverage can be very confusing when it comes to car accidents, so here are answers to some of the more commonly asked questions:

  1. What if I have car insurance, and the accident is not my fault?

If, for instance, you were hurt because the other driver ran a red light or a stop sign or rear-ended you, then you will very likely be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against that driver. You may also be able to file a lawsuit if only property damage occurred.

However, in Pennsylvania it is important to keep in mind that the amount you may be able to recover depends on if you have a Full Tort insurance policy or a Limited Tort policy. The Full Tort option allows you to sue for pain and suffering, whereas the Limited Tort option forfeits your right to be compensated for these damages. Though opting for a Full Tort auto insurance policy may bump up your monthly premium; it may be well worth the price in comparison to the suffering and life-altering effects that can be brought on by a serious car accident.

  1. What if I have car insurance, and the accident is my fault?

If the accident was minor and there were no injuries, your insurance company will very likely handle everything. You’ll probably see an increase in your premium at worst. If you only had minimum coverage, though, and the other party was hurt — or the other driver’s property damage losses exceed your coverage — then you could be held liable for the difference.

  1. What if the other driver has no car insurance, and the accident is not my fault

You will need to speak with an attorney to determine whether or not you can file an uninsured motorist claim. If the other driver had no insurance and the wreck was not your fault, you may even be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. However, be prepared to cover at least some of the expenses from damages — an uninsured driver may not have the assets for you to receive any money from.

If you or a family member was injured in an auto accident caused by a motorist who was not properly insured, having higher uninsured or underinsured limits on your own policy can help provide protection against the damages you’ve suffered. Underinsured motorist coverage can provide coverage for lost wages, medical expenses, and injury-related expenses. In addition to these provisions, uninsured coverage can provide coverage if the injury was due to a hit-and-run accident – something that is not covered with underinsured policies. Additionally, “stacking” your insurance can further increase your insurance limits to provide you with additional protection.

  1. What if I have no car insurance, and the accident is my fault?

If this is this case, then you will probably be facing a major problem. The other driver will likely file an uninsured motorist claim, and then their insurance provider will probably sue you to recover whatever it pays out. If there is any doubt whatsoever as to whether or not you are to blame for the accident, please get in touch with an attorney as soon as you can.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding what to do after a car accident in Pennsylvania, give us a call or contact us online. We’re happy to help you get back on your feet after an accident.

Don’t forget to download your own copy of our car accident checklist or share it with friends! Every detail matters when it comes to accident claims and compensation.

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