There is no such thing as a “minor” car accident. Being involved in any car accident is a serious matter, regardless of whether you have sustained any injuries. In fact, a minor car accident can result in serious injuries that can become much worse if the injuries are not treated.
However, many people tend to treat a minor car accident or “fender bender” differently from other car accidents. They may not go to the doctor or file a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. Failing to treat a minor car accident the same as all other car accidents can be a mistake. You need to take the same steps after a minor car crash to protect your health and your rights, including notifying your insurance company of the collision.
Steps to Take After a Minor Car Accidents
Call 911 to report the accident and request police and emergency medical services, if necessary. As with any car crash, seek medical treatment. Minor aches and pains can be an indication of a more serious injury. Furthermore, low-impact rear-end collisions or other minor accidents can often cause a closed head injury. Make sure a doctor checks you as soon as possible after the accident.
If possible, take pictures of the accident scene and obtain the contact information for any eyewitnesses. Even a minor car accident can result in damages. You need to be able to prove the other driver was at fault for the collision if you expect to receive compensation for your losses, injuries, and damages.
As quickly as possible, notify your insurance company of the automobile accident. Almost every automobile insurance policy contains a clause that requires you to report car accidents to your insurance company. Even if you believe the other driver caused the collision, you need to notify your insurance company of the crash.
Contact the insurance company for the other driver to file a claim, if the driver is at fault. You may also want to contact an Indianapolis car accident lawyer to discuss your options for filing a claim. In some cases, the insurance company for the other driver may deny your claim. It can be comforting and helpful to have an experienced attorney on your side as you move through the process of filing a claim.
Why Should I Notify My Insurance Company of An Accident?
In addition to being in compliance with your insurance policy, you want to protect your right to file an underinsured or uninsured motorist claim. If the other driver does not have sufficient insurance coverage to pay your damages, you may need to file a claim under your automobile insurance policy. Failing to notify your auto insurance company of the car accident could result in a denial or your claim for breach of contract.
Medical treatment for injuries can be very expensive and missing time from work can be very costly. You need to protect your right to recover compensation for these damages and other damages by notifying your insurance company of any car accident. Even when dealing with your automobile insurance company it helps to have the guidance and advice of an attorney.
An attorney can help ensure you are treated fairly, and your injury claim is processed correctly. Furthermore, if liability is an issue, your attorney can perform an independent investigation to determine fault and obtain evidence to prove the other driver caused the crash.
Do You Need an Indianapolis Car Accident Lawyer?
If you have been injured in a car accident, we want to help. Contact The Ken Nunn Law Office by calling 1-800-CALL-KEN or 1-800-225-5536.
Schedule a free, no-obligation legal consultation with an Indianapolis car accident lawyer to discuss your options for filing an injury claim against the other driver’s insurance policy and/or your auto insurance policy.
