Few things can derail your day like a car accident, especially when you’re the one at fault. Your stomach drops, your heart races, and your mind floods with panic. With over 27,000 crashes on Nashville roads in 2023 alone, resulting in 126 fatalities and nearly 9,000 injuries, it’s vital to know how to respond if you caused the collision. Being prepared can minimize further issues and help you handle the stressful situation properly. Here are 5 crucial things to do if you’re deemed at fault in an auto accident:
1. Remain at the Scene
If you’re involved in an accident where you’re at fault, it’s vital that you remain at the scene. Fleeing the scene of an accident is against the law and can result in criminal charges. Stay calm, make sure everyone involved is okay, and wait for the police to arrive. Give them your statement on what transpired and accept responsibility for causing the crash.
2. Contact Your Insurance Provider
Once the police have your statement, call your car insurance company right away to report the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details, including the time and location, injuries sustained, damages, police report, and the fact that you were at fault. This will start the claims process to help cover the costs of damages and medical bills for others involved. Cooperate fully with your insurer to help facilitate the next steps.
3. Exchange Information
While you are at the accident scene, be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with all other parties involved. Get their names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details. You’ll need this to give to both the police and your insurance provider. If there are injuries, also try to obtain witness information.
4. Seek Medical Attention If Needed
If you or anyone else sustained injuries in the accident, seek medical care right away. Adrenaline can disguise serious injuries, so it’s better to get checked out. For major injuries, call 911 and have emergency personnel dispatched. Your health and safety should be your top concern. Even if you feel fine initially, follow up with your doctor in the next few days to make sure no problems arise later.
5. Contact an Attorney
Especially for serious accidents, it’s highly advisable to contact a Nashville car accident attorney for representation and guidance. A lawyer can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies and claims, assist in negotiating settlements, and defend you if a lawsuit is filed. With over 6,800 Tennessee crashes in 2022 caused by distracted driving and over 1,000 by speeding, you’ll want legal expertise on your side.
Being at fault in a car accident can be daunting, but staying calm and following these steps can help make the process more manageable. Focus on safety, comply with authorities, communicate with your insurer, document everything, and don’t hesitate to call an experienced attorney for assistance. Taking the proper actions can alleviate stress and lead to the best possible outcome for all involved.
