Car accidents are stressful and chaotic, especially when you’re the one at fault. It’s easy to panic, but staying calm and following the proper steps can make a significant difference. Whether you’re facing minor damage or a more serious collision, understanding what to do next can protect your rights and help you avoid further complications.
Here are some essential steps to take if you’re involved in an accident and it’s your fault:
1. Stop and Stay Safe
No matter how minor the accident may seem, never leave the scene. Leaving an accident could result in serious legal consequences, such as being charged with a hit-and-run. It’s important to stop and ensure the safety of everyone involved. Move your car to the side of the road if possible to avoid blocking traffic, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Check for Injuries
After an accident, it’s crucial to assess the situation carefully. Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone involved in the accident for injuries. If anyone appears injured, call 911 immediately. Even if no one is visibly hurt, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s better to be cautious and get medical attention for everyone involved.
3. Call the Police
It’s essential to call the police, especially if the accident results in significant damage or injury. A police report will help document the incident and may serve as crucial evidence if there are disputes about who is at fault. In Arizona, you may be required to file a police report for accidents causing injury or significant property damage. Always cooperate with the authorities, but avoid admitting fault or speculating on the cause of the crash at this point.
4. Exchange Information
Make sure to exchange relevant information with the other driver(s), including:
- Full names
- Contact details (phone numbers and email addresses)
- Driver’s license numbers
- Insurance company details (policy numbers, phone numbers)
If there are any witnesses to the accident, gather their contact information as well. This information can be helpful for insurance claims or any future legal proceedings.
5. Document the Scene
Take detailed notes and photographs of the accident scene. Use your smartphone to capture clear images of:
- The damage to all vehicles involved
- The location of the accident, including traffic signs, road conditions, or weather
- Any visible injuries or property damage
- The positions of the vehicles after the crash
Photographic evidence is often essential for insurance claims and in case any disputes arise later on.
6. Do Not Admit Fault
Even if you believe the accident was your fault, do not admit fault at the scene. Insurance companies and the police will investigate the accident and determine liability. Admitting fault prematurely could complicate things later. Instead, stick to the facts and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Let the authorities and your insurance company assess the situation.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Most insurance policies require you to report any accidents immediately, regardless of fault. Failing to do so could result in penalties or delays in processing your claim. Your insurer will guide you through the next steps and help cover damages according to the terms of your policy.
8. Cooperate with Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve reported the accident, your insurance company will typically handle claims related to the damages and injuries caused by the crash. If you are found to be at fault, your liability insurance should cover the costs of the other driver’s damages and injuries. Keep in mind that if the damages exceed your policy limits, you may be personally responsible for any additional expenses.
If you have collision coverage, it will likely cover damage to your own vehicle. However, you will still be responsible for paying your deductible.
9. Consider Legal Assistance
Even if the accident was clearly your fault, it’s still a good idea to consult with an attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the complex insurance claims process, advise you on potential legal liabilities, and protect your interests. If there are serious injuries or extensive property damage, legal representation becomes even more important. An attorney can help prevent you from being unfairly burdened with excessive costs.
10. Prepare for the Claims Process
The insurance claims process can be complicated, and your rates may increase as a result of the accident. If the accident caused severe damage or injury, there’s also a chance that you may face a lawsuit. Working with your attorney and insurance company can help you understand your responsibilities and options moving forward. Your lawyer can help ensure you only pay for your fair share of the damages, especially if you were partially at fault or if other drivers shared some responsibility.
What to Expect After an Accident You Caused
If you are at fault, you could be held financially responsible for damages resulting from the crash. This may include:
- Medical bills
- Vehicle repairs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
In cases where your insurance limits are exceeded, you might have to pay out of pocket or face a lawsuit. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to negotiate a settlement with the other parties involved or in some cases, even reduce your liability with the help of legal counsel.
Call CLS Law for Help
If you’re involved in a car accident and it’s your fault, CLS Law is here to help. We understand how stressful these situations can be, and our experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal and insurance processes. Don’t face the aftermath alone—contact us for a consultation today.
Call (855) 257-9467 to speak with one of our skilled attorneys and get the help you need.