Involved in a Fender Bender? Your Next Steps
It is unfortunate that even with the best driving habits, accidents can still happen. In a place like Florida, a fender bender accident is one of the most common types of an automobile collision.
You might ask — what is a fender bender? It is when two cars make minor contact with each other. It can be a nerve-wracking experience if you are involved in one. That is why it is essential to know what steps to take after being in a fender-bender accident.
Another thing to remember after being involved in a car accident is its legal implications for your situation. Whether you were at fault or not, it is always beneficial to contact a personal injury lawyer to ensure that your rights are protected, and any potential consequences from the incident are minimized. Zagury Scott, P.A., is one of the best Miami personal injury lawyers who can help with your fender bender case.
What To Do After Getting Involved in a Fender Bender
Although a fender bender is a minor accident involving two or more cars, it is usually the result of a low-speed impact causing minimal damage to the vehicles involved. Here are some steps to take for those who want to know what to do after a fender bender.
1. Calm Down
Remaining calm is the best course of action after a fender-bender. Taking deep breaths and controlling your emotions can help diffuse the situation and ensure everyone involved stays safe. Additionally, keeping a level head will make it much easier to figure out what needs to be done next and ensure that you get the proper assistance.
2. No Blocking
It is important to move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic. If possible, move both vehicles to a safe location where they can be inspected, and you can exchange information. If an accident occurs on a busy street or highway, be sure to use your hazard lights, reflective triangles, or flares around your vehicle to warn other drivers.
3. Contact the Police
Even though it might be a minor accident, it is important to call the police. They will be able to document the incident. The police will also help assess the damages and create an official report in case either party decides to file an insurance claim.
4. Take Photos
After a fender bender, take photos. This will help to document the damage to both vehicles and accurately depict what happened during the incident. Taking photos can also be beneficial when filing an insurance claim and providing evidence of the accident. Photos should include images from all angles to represent any damage done accurately.
5. Exchange Contact Information
It is essential to exchange contact information. The insurance company needs this information in order to process any claims. Make sure to get the other driver’s full name, address, phone number, and driver’s license number, as well as their insurance information.
6. Call the Insurance Company
After being in a minor car accident, it is essential to contact your insurance company. This way, you can be sure that your car and any other vehicles involved in the accident are taken care of properly. Contacting your insurance company as soon as possible can speed up the process of getting everything sorted out. Having all the necessary information on hand will make it easier for your insurance company to provide you with an accurate estimate and repair timeline.
7. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
It is crucial to seek legal assistance from an experienced personal injury attorney if you have been involved in any type of motor vehicle accident.
Zagury Scott PA Can Help You
Being involved in a fender bender can be an overwhelming experience with all the paperwork to file, the insurance company to speak with, and potential legal ramifications. With these, it is vital that you understand your rights and responsibilities. A personal injury lawyer that knows Miami injury law can help you navigate the process and advise you on how to protect your interests best. Miami personal injury lawyers can also represent you in court if needed.
Do not hesitate to call for help from Zagury Scott, P.A. We have countless resources available for those who need legal assistance after being involved in a fender bender.