What Happens if You Are At Fault for an Auto Accident

No one likes being involved in car accidents. Setting aside the possibility of being injured, just the financial loss is frustrating to deal with. If you were at fault for the accident, things become even more complicated. In fact, you may not know what to do if you are at fault for the collision. This is nothing to be ashamed of, but you do need to know what to do so you can handle the situation responsibly. This guide will explain what actions to take.

Immediately After the Crash

First things first, there are some things you should do immediately after the collision, regardless of who is at fault:

1. Evaluate whether you are injured. If you suspect you are injured, call 911.
2. Evaluate whether anyone else is injured. If so, call 911.
3. Evaluate whether you can move the cars off the road. Do not attempt to move the cars if it would be dangerous to do so. Either way, get everyone out of the road.
4. Call the police non-emergency number to get an accident report filed.
5. Share contact information with the other driver.
6. Get the contact information of any witnesses.
7. Take detailed pictures of both cars.
8. Contact your insurance provider.

If you follow these steps, you will be in a much better situation. These steps serve to protect you and others from physical harm, but also help you with any legal trouble that may come down the line.

In the Following Days

Once you are no longer in any immediate danger, things get a little more complicated. If you are at fault for the accident, you will be responsible for paying for all damages the other driver suffered. This includes damage to property and medical bills.

Typically, your insurance provider will take care of the whole situation. You are required by law to have auto insurance that covers the other driver in the event you are at fault for an accident. If this is the case, your insurance will pay for all or some of the damages, and you will pay for the remaining amount yourself.

If you do not have insurance to cover the other driver, you are still responsible. You must pay for all the damages out of pocket. If you are unable to and cannot come to an agreement with the other driver, then the driver has the right to file a lawsuit against you. If it looks like things are going in this direction, you should contact an attorney immediately, like a car accident lawyer in Tampa, FL from Jeff Murphy Law.