What If I Am At Fault In A Car Accident?

Even a minor distraction can divert your attention away from the road for a few seconds, which is all it takes. If you collided with another vehicle in an intersection, you may believe it was your fault. What should you do now?

Being involved in a car accident can be a terrifying experience. It can feel even worse when the collision was your fault. Following a car accident, there are some common-sense steps to take. Your Macon car accident lawyer will also suggest taking a few steps if you are at fault.

What To Do If You Are At Fault In A Car Accident?

Stay calm if you suspect (or know you caused) a car accident. Whether you were at fault or not, there are important steps to take following a crash, and you should stay focused to ensure you do certain things.

Following are some important things you should do if you are at fault in an accident.

1.   Hire A Car Accident Lawyer

You may believe that car accident lawyers only assist innocent victims of car accidents, but there are many ways an attorney can help you even if you believe you caused the accident. It's always a good idea to consult with an attorney about the situation. Choose an experienced Macon car accident lawyer that handles all types of traffic accident claims regularly.

2.   Exchange Your Number With Other Driver

You may also be required to assist anyone in need or to call for assistance. You should, at the very least, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver or drivers involved. If there is a certain amount of property damage or if someone was injured in the accident, you will almost certainly be required to report it to the authorities.

3.   Call The Police

It's a good idea to call the police so that someone can respond to the accident scene. Keep as much to yourself as possible while you wait for the cops. In some cases, the other driver may try to confront you or express anger about the accident.

Maintain your composure and avoid admitting fault or apologizing. It's all too easy to start apologizing for being distracted or failing to notice the other car. This is a mistake because you should never admit to the other driver that you were negligent.

4.   Inform Your Insurance Company

Report all accidents to your car insurance company, regardless of who is at fault. Some insurance policies require you to report accidents as soon as possible or your rates will be raised.

5.   Take Pictures

Use your phone's camera to capture the accident scene and vehicle damage. Make a note of any nearby businesses that may have cameras that captured the accident, as well as any cameras mounted on traffic lights.

6.   Record All The Details

Record details about the accident as soon as possible, including specific damage to all vehicles involved, witness information, and comments from other drivers.

7.   Report the accident

If the police do not arrive at the scene, file a report with the police department or the department of motor vehicles. In some areas, you can even report a car accident online.

Losses That You May Have To Pay

When you are at fault in an accident, having an insurance policy can be beneficial, but be aware that it may not be able to cover your losses fairly. Unless the costs exceed your car insurance policy limits, you may not have to pay for anyone's damages out of pocket. If an injured driver sues you for more money than your insurance policy will cover, you may be personally liable for their damages.

If the other driver was seriously injured or killed, you could face a lawsuit. Your insurance company and the injured party may reach an agreement on a settlement, and you may not need to go to court.

The following losses may be covered by your insurance company if another driver causes them:

• Property damage
• Medical costs
• Suffering and pain
• Income squandered
• Loss of earning capacity

In terms of your damages, if you have collision coverage as part of your policy, it should cover them, though you will still be responsible for paying your deductible.

Final Words

In a nutshell, the consequences of causing a car accident can be severe. Personal injuries and car repairs can be expensive. If you don't have enough insurance to cover all of the damages, the other drivers may seize your savings or other assets to cover the shortfall. You must safeguard your interests. Seek the assistance of an experienced Macon car accident lawyer to get yourself free from false accident claims.