Copyright (c) 2009 Michael Schafer
If you find that you have been in an automobile accident you will probably be amazed at the range of emotions that you experience. First of all you are more than likely suffering physical pain. On top of that you will become angry about the accident. It doesn't matter if you are the cause or not you will more than likely get mad bacause the accident occured. You will then become frustrated because what you should be happening isn't. You are beginning to walk through territory that is unknown to you and you may feel lost. You begin to feel like you have done something wrong even though you have not. Many questions will arise as to what you should and should not do as well as what you are entitled to. The first thing you need to do is report the accident to the police as soon as possible. This is a very important first step.
The law requires that the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident must stop. The severity of the accident or the amount of damage to the cars doesn't matter. You must stop. If you do not stop you could be charged with "Hit and Run" or "Leaving the Scene of the Accident". These are criminal charges and carry a criminal penalty as well as civil ramifications. By leaving the scene can only make a bad situation much worse.
Unless you are in danger, do not move your car until the police arrive at the accident scene and can document the locations of the vehicles. This is critical to your case. Do not move the car until the police tell you to. Often times the police officer can gain valuable information by analyzing the final location of the vehicles. This is a good time for you to take pictures if you are able to do so safely. The police can also document the location of the vehicles and this information can be analyzed by an accident reconstruction expert at a later time.
Always tell the truth. This goes without saying. But be careful not to admit any fault. Even if you feel you are to blame, only tell what happened. Give your recollection as to what actually happened. Do not interpret or guess. Do not assume you know the law. Let the police officer do his job in finding out what happened and in determining fault. Always be respectful to all involved.
Don't tell the other party what happened, only the police officer. Many times the law may be on your side and you don't even know it. Just tell the police the facts as to how the accident occurred. It is always best to get legal advice as quick as possible. Let someone who understands the laws interpret the facts to make a determination as to liability or whose fault the accident is.
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About The Author Michael A. Schafer is an attorney who concentrates his law practice in personal injury litigation in Louisville, Kentucky. He is the author of "7 Potholes That Can Wreck Your
Kentucky Accident Case" and "What You Don't Know About Buying Car Insurance Can Hurt You".
