External damage to one’s body is something that no one should have to experience. Unfortunately, there will be times in life when unforeseen circumstances occur. Accidents, such as those we see with motor collisions, are far too common. If you know someone involved in an accident, the experience can be incredibly harmful.
Or, you may be involved in a car accident yourself. No matter the extent of the damage, you must always take immediate action to protect yourself. Thankfully, in some cases, the damage incurred via a car accident can be minor. Should this be the case for your situation, use these tips when handling the accident.
1. Secure Your Safety
Above all else, your safety and well-being come first after something as dangerous as a car collision. However, the damage you potentially receive can be minor. Even if it is small, taking stock of your current situation is always recommended. Make sure that you can move, and you can exit the vehicle as well.
Minor damage can still take the form of a broken arm. It is not just about the external damage your car may receive on the front or bumper. You will be good to go if you can view your surroundings. Everything else can wait until you are of sound mind and judgment!
2. Getting a Lawyer
Minor car accidents could be resolved if the damage was not too severe. You must usually get a personal injury lawyer since the other party may choose to pursue a case. In this regard, speaking to a few lawyers beforehand is always advised to understand where you stand. It may be hard, especially for a minor car incident, but you are always better safe than sorry!
3. Collecting Proof
Car accidents are far too common in our society. Despite the extent of the harm incurred being relatively small, some visual markers of damage will be present. Gathering evidence will be important when you become involved in this collision. Make sure that you can do so before collecting your proof.
Proof can come about in multiple formats as well. For instance, photos taken from your smartphone will be the way to go. Video evidence may be used, too, if you need it. When it is safe to do so, get as much visual evidence as possible. That way, you cover all your bases when it comes time for the legal process.
4. Calling the Authorities
One of the key differences between reporting a major or minor collision has to do with the authorities. Normally, the police should be contacted if the extent of damage is moderate to severe. If you live in Canada, many minor instances of a car collision can be reported to the local collision reporting centre.
These authorities differ slightly from law enforcement in dealing with minor car accidents. What defines the word minor is the level of damage on the individual or the vehicle itself. For example, if the accident appears to be less than two thousand dollars of damage, they should be contacted immediately.
5. Recording Details
Gathering proof of the car collision is important, but you must also ensure you take detailed notes. Sometimes, even minor car accidents can be caused by someone not being fit to drive. They could have been intoxicated or may not even have a license to be behind the wheel!
Whatever the case may be, it is critical to inspect the situation further. The notes you gather here will be crucial once you get in touch with legal representation. Also, note the time of day, the weather, and the road conditions. All factors are important to consider in this part of the process.
6. Exchanging Information
If you are of sound mind and body, you should speak to the other individual involved in the accident. There needs to be an exchange of information present so that legal proceedings can begin. Ask the individual for the insurance, and exchange yours with them. However, there are some key factors to keep in mind.
First, not all individuals will be welcoming, and they could be hostile. In this scenario, waiting for the right authorities to contact you is important. Record the individual’s license plate information and the type of vehicle they are driving. Afterwards, you could relay the details to the right professional, and they can take it from there.