Involved in a Car Accident Without Insurance? Follow these 9 Crucial Steps
Posted in: Car Insurance, Driving Tips, Motorway Driving, News.
Involved in a Car Accident Without Insurance? Follow these 9 Crucial Steps
Getting your license means you’re already educated in the safe operation of your vehicle. But, what if you’re in an accident that’s not your fault, and the other driver doesn’t have insurance? It happens, and even if you’re rattled after a collision, there are things you should always be prepared for. In this article, we’ve outlined the 9 steps to follow now, during, and after an accident.
1.Keep your paperwork organized
No-one is ready for the “THUMP” of another driver rear-ending their car. You’ll likely be upset, angry or scared. When you keep your vehicle registration and insurance information together and easily accessible, you’ll have one less thing to worry about. It’s also a good idea to keep a small notebook and a pen with your paperwork, so that you can take down notes – you’ll need these if you file an insurance claim.
Even when many insurance agencies have smartphone apps to handle your coverage information, you could be low on your battery charge at the time of the accident! Hard copies of paperwork will prevent further problems.
TIP: Whenever you are putting the latest copies of your documents in your car, check your spare tyre for any problems and proper inflation. This way you’ll have a regular schedule, and less of a headache should you need to change a flat.
2. Know when it’s likely to be the other driver’s fault
Generally, there are some scenarios where it’s not your fault as the driver. Keep these in mind:
- Failure to yield: You’ve learned about the rules of right-of-way – if you were obeying the law, tried to avoid the accident by braking or serving and the other driver collided with you, it’s likely to be proven that they are liable.
- Rear-end collisions: If the other driver drives into the back of your car, they are usually at fault.
- Running a red light or stop sign: As above, if you tried to maneuver and avoid the accident, it’s likely they will be held responsible.
- Driving under the influence: If one of the drivers is found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they are typically held responsible. The next step may be required depending on your situation.
3. Call the police
Call them as soon as you are safely out of the car. Don’t move your vehicle, unless they instruct you to do so. Report the accident, any injuries, and other details they might ask for. Follow their instructions, and wait for their arrival in a safe area off the roadway.
4. Take care of any injuries
It goes without saying that you should tend to any injuries from the accident first. If you or any of your passengers are hurt, it’s a priority. Assess any injuries and let the police dispatcher know if anyone needs immediate assistance. And, if you need medical attention from a professional, do it right away.
Explain what happened in the collision so that they can evaluate you correctly for injuries that may not be obvious to you, like whiplash or disc damage. Approximately 65% of all the people who claimed insurance under bodily injury liability coverage reported minor neck injuries.
5. Get your facts together
If there are witnesses, get their names, numbers, and addresses – even a photo, if possible.
Get the vehicle information, driver information, their license information, insurance information and find out who owns the car. (It may not be the driver, and this information is critical.)
Make sure the insurance information includes the contact info for the company or agent.
Write these down in your notebook and take a photo of each piece of paperwork with your smartphone, if possible. Take photos of any damage. Also take photos of the scene – traffic signs, etc. If you’re the proud owner of a dash cam, this is the time to save that footage!
6. Contact your insurance company
In the best case scenario, any damages or injuries will be covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance or your own coverage. Your agent will be able to help you with any questions about your coverage and the filing process. If you find that your coverage does not include any damages from under or uninsured motorists, this will be the time to decide on additional actions.
7. Consult a good law firm
If the other driver has no insurance and there are injuries or damages, you’ll need professional help. Firms that specialize in personal injury can assess your possible case efficiently and advise on details you might not be thinking of. A good attorney will be invaluable when you need help recouping losses. It’s always worth it to have the consultation with them to discuss the facts of the accident.
8. Keep a journal of how you’re feeling
Not all injuries from a collision are noticeable right away. In the days following the accident, note any pain or other symptoms. Watch for anything that your physician advised about, such as headache, dizziness, mood changes or soreness. It may seem to be even more paperwork to deal with, but it’s better to be observant. Keep your notes with the other paperwork in your file you’ve set up.
9. Obtain any copies of paperwork
Be sure to get your copies of police reports, any medical records, invoices and bills. Keep them together with your notes, photos and videos from the time of the accident. Don’t forget to keep copies of any new medical bills or insurance claim information. These will all be essential to sorting out any questions that your insurance company or attorney might have.
Conclusion
Absolutely no-one wants to be involved or hurt in a car accident, but if you do a bit of preparation as a new driver you’ll be calmer before you head out onto the open road. Print off a copy of our list and keep it with your insurance documents in your car. Enjoy your newly driving freedom!
AUTHOR BIO
Scott Distasio is the founder of Distasio Law Firm in Tampa. His career focus is on all types of personal injury cases. His work represents his belief that all firms should provide outstanding service to their clients. Follow @scottdistasio on Twitter to see what legal wisdom he shares next.
CONTACT INFO:
Distasio Law Firm
112 Channelside Dr Ste 5
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 259-0022
info@distasiofirm.com
Tags: Involved in a Car Accident Without Insurance
