Minor “fender benders”, which don’t usually involve injuries, are some of the most common car crashes. Here are some things to be aware of:
- Minor traffic accidents can occur anywhere: in parking lots, at stop lights, and in stop-and-go traffic on freeways. It is important to follow the correct steps after a minor accident, no matter where it happens.
- The laws of your state determine the time and manner in which you must report a car accident to law enforcement authorities or any other government agencies.
- It is almost a requirement to notify your car insurance company about any traffic accident, regardless of whether you make a claim under your coverage.
What to Do After a Minor Car Accident
Even if a car accident appears to have caused minor injuries, and there is little visible damage to the vehicle, it is still vital to follow these key steps:
- Any other person involved in an accident should exchange their contact information, insurance details, and driver’s license information.
- Take photos of vehicle damage, the location of signage and traffic signals, as well as the position and orientation of the vehicles.
- Call local law enforcement on a non-emergency phone number to ask if an officer can arrive at the scene to prepare a police report.
- Pay attention to what you say.
Getting Help After a Car Accident
If the car accident is minor and you feel comfortable handling it yourself, it is probably safe to file a car accident claim. If things become more complicated than you initially thought, it may be a good idea to speak with an experienced lawyer.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is a Pinellas Park injury lawyer. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision, which should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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