On my way to work this morning, I saw the aftermath of what looked like a fender bender. Now most people would think, “it’s just a fender bender, it’s no big deal.” However, working for an auto injury attorney, I can tell you that it is a big deal. Because fender benders can also be the cause of whiplash and other underlying issues. Yes, low impact accidents can indeed have a major impact on our bodies. Today I am going to go over a few tips on how to deal with a fender bender if one happens. as well as the common injuries to look our for. If you are suffering from injuries due to a fender bender, please do not hesitate to contact a car accident lawyer in our office. Consultations are free!
Auto Accident Attorney | How To Handle A Fender Bender
A great deal of car accidents are non-fatal. Most involve some sort of cosmetic or mechanical damage to one or more of the cars involved. Even if you are not seriously hurt after your accident, make sure you seek medical attention just in case.
Acting immediately after your fender bender will help you and your accident claim. Here are some tips!
Pull Over
If you are able to pull over to the side of the road safely, do so. Removing yourself from the flow of traffic will reduce the risk of an accident pile-up. Choosing a safe place where you and the other driver(s) can get out of the car is ideal.
Pay attention to where the other car is pulling over. This is especially important if it is not the same as you. Also, if the other car does not pull over, try to see if you can get a look at the license plate of the other driver. If you can make it out, write it down or put it in your phone as soon as you can.
This is also a good time to turn your hazard lights on.
Check for Injuries
Check yourself and any passengers (if applicable) for injuries. If you or anyone else are suffering from injuries, contact the 911 immediately to get the ambulance on the scene.
**Dial 9-1-1
Most people who are in minor fender benders usually skip this step and decide to just exchange insurance information. Consider this step only if both parties agree and there doesn’t seem to be any risk of injury.
We always recommend filing a police report. Even in small fender bender accidents. This is because, if you are suffering from injuries down the line due to the accident, the police report will help your claim a great deal. It will show the insurance company that you are serious about your injuries and did your due-deligence.
Communicate With the Other Driver(s)
If it is safe, after you and the other driver(s) pull over, you will want to exchange insurance information. If you don’t have pen or paper on you, you can always take a picture of their insurance card and personal information. However, if the other driver is uninsured, ask for their name, driver’s license number, license plate number, address, and any other contact information. Even if they do not have insurance, if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you will still be able to file a claim.
Never accept any arrangement where money is exchanged without notifying the insurance companies. Even if you are not the one at fault.
Take Pictures
If you can, take as many pictures of your car and any other cars involved in the accident. as well as any skid marks, and any of the surrounding areas. Though the police will likely take their own photos, it is best to take your own as well.
Make sure you don’t leave the scene of the accident abruptly. If you contacted the police to file a report, wait until they release you. This is because it may appear that you are trying to run away from the situation.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Call the number on your insurance policy where it says, “in case of accident/claim.” Contacting your insurance company to report the accident is very important. It is best that you contact them before the other party has the opportunity to do so.
Suffering from Injuries? Contact a Car Accident Lawyer!
Believe it or not, you can suffer from serious injuries due to a fender bender. Accidents, even at slow speeds can cause a variety of neck issues. Whiplash being one of them. This happens when a person in a car is not moving or moving slowly gets hit from behind, causing hyperextension. the seat pushes the occupant’s midsection forward while your head and neck fall back.
As an auto injury attorney, we know that suffering from injuries due to your accident can be stressful. However, the claim process doesn’t have to be. a car accident lawyer in our office will handle the insurance companies so you don’t have to. We know all too well the bullying tactics of the insurance adjusters and we do not believe that you should have to deal with them during this difficult time. We have years of experience dealing with them. Let us handle them, so your sole focus is on recovering from your injuries.
If you are suffering from injuries due to a fender bender, please do not hesitate to contact us today. Consultations with an auto injury lawyer in our office are free!
