Getting into a car accident is never a pleasant experience. But when you get into a Toledo car accident that you believe is your fault, it can cause immediate panic and fear. While your first response should be to make sure that everyone involved is unhurt, the next steps you take can determine your liability and how smoothly the claim is handled.
Should I Admit That I Was at Fault in a Toledo Car Accident?
After you have determined that everyone is safe, you should exchange information with the other driver. Keep it cordial and don’t admit fault even if you believe you caused the car accident. There could be other circumstances that you are not fully aware of that could affect who is guilty of causing the crash.
While it can be tempting to make small talk with the other driver until police arrive you want to make sure you don’t discuss the Toledo car accident in any way. Keep the conversation light and divert attention away from what happened. There is no need to apologize or admit guilt as the police will determine who is at fault.’
If the other driver begins to get irate or question you about your driving ability, take a step back and remove yourself from the conversation. There is no need to get into an argument over who caused the accident as escalated tempers can make the situation even worse to endure. Wait in your car until police arrive.
Do you have questions about your Toledo car accident? Contact the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers for a consultation!
Should I Call the Police If I Was at Fault for a Toledo Car Accident?
It is a good idea to call the police if you have been involved in a car accident with another driver. In some states, it is required to report an accident to the police if property damage in excess of $500 has occurred or if someone has been injured or killed because of the collision.
If someone has been injured or hurt as a result of a Toledo car accident, you have 30 days to report the incident to the proper authorities. This can be in writing to a local police department of a judicial officer. If the police arrive at the scene of the accident, they will take the necessary documentation of the events and no further action will be required on your part to report the accident.
Even if you have had a small fender bender, you will want the police to know about the accident. They will decide if they need to appear at the scene of the crash, but at least you will have your version of what happened during the accident recorded.
Should I Tell the Police If I Think I Was at Fault for a Toledo Car Accident?
You want to be honest and upfront with the police when questioned about the direct events of an accident. Take some time before the police arrive to think about what happened before, during, and after the car crash. Having a clear understanding of all the events of the Toledo car accident can make it easier for you to relay the information to the police without forgetting any important details.
Should I Talk to Witnesses about the Toledo Car Accident?
Depending on where your car accident occurred, there may be witnesses to the actual crash. They can be valuable in backing your version of the what actually happened. Try to get the names and contact information for anyone on site that was witness to the collision.
Should I Call My Insurance Company Following a Toledo Car Accident?
It is important that you report your Toledo car accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Bear in mind that they will make their own determination of who was at fault for the crash, regardless of what the police report states.
You should be sure to contact your insurance company within a day of the accident. Every insurance company has a clause that requires you to be a cooperative participant when an accident occurs. If you fail to work with them to resolve a car accident claim and the vehicle damage associated with it, they could deny you coverage. This is imperative to remember as you don’t want to be responsible for costs incurred that should have been covered by your car insurance policy.
Should I Get My Car Repaired After the Toledo Car Accident?
Of course, you want your car repaired from the collision damage as soon as possible, but you need to make sure that your insurance company has all the information and pictures they need to document the effects of the crash. Your insurance company may allow you to take your own pictures or they may require photos from their own personnel.
In either case, you need to wait until your insurance company has given you the go ahead to get your vehicle repaired. While this can be an inconvenience to you, especially if your car can’t be driven as a result of the Toledo car accident, getting your car repaired without proper authorization can have you footing the bill instead.
What Will Happen to My Insurance Premiums If I Was At Fault for a Toledo Car Accident?
As unfortunate as it may be, if it is determined that you were at fault in a car crash, you will suffer from higher insurance premiums for the next few years. In Missouri, a car accident will remain on your driving record for three years, but your insurance company may look back at your record for five years and charge you a higher car insurance premium for this entire period.
Consult with an Auto Accident Attorney Today
If you have been involved in a car accident that may be your fault, you need the help of the skilled and experienced attorneys at the Ohio Car Accident Lawyers. We can help you understand your legal rights and determine the best course of action for your case. Contact us today!
