What to Do in a Minor Car Accident With No Damage

Not all car accidents are significant and severe. Instead, many are the outcomes of stupid blunders or poor timing and have minimal influence on either party involved. In the case of a minor accident with no or little damage, it’s natural to wonder how to continue.

After a minor accident, drivers often question themselves, is it worth contacting your car insurance company if you have no claims? Is it necessary to involve the police or hire a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento? Is going to the doctor requisite? The answer to all of them is YES! Continue reading to know the DOs following an accident, even if it’s minor.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident

Most things a person should do following a car accident are the same regardless of severity. Even if the accident is minor, with no damage, you should follow some protocols.

While roadside discussions and handshake settlements seem feasible, they are far from solid and safe solutions. Consider the following things every motorist should do after an accident if they want to be on the safer side.

·      Keep Calm and Clear the Way

Getting anxious is the worst thing to do after a vehicle accident and will most likely worsen the issue. Take a deep breath and analyze the situation before proceeding with the steps. Drivers should ensure they are not impeding other drivers’ way to pass safely. Consider turning on the danger lights for safety if the collision occurs in a crowded place.

·      Exchange contact and insurance information

After a car collision, always communicate information with the other party. Since it makes no difference if there is damage, injuries, or anything else, you must exchange some information.

·      Collect photos of the accident

In addition to gathering the other driver’s contact, insurance, and car information, gathering as much evidence as possible is a good idea. Take pictures of any cars involved in the collision, as well as the surroundings and license plate numbers, just in case. If there are witnesses, engaging with them for a statement and obtaining their contact information may be beneficial later on if someone decides to file a claim.

·      Report the Accident to the Police

Even minor accidents necessitate police reports. Having proper paperwork to detail the occurrence is helpful if either side decides to file a lawsuit. Even when there is no damage, the highway patrol can generate police records for all car accident types.

Deciding not to contact the police after reaching an agreement with the other motorist is a risky option that isn’t legal, leaving people vulnerable and at risk of being blamed. Moreover, if another driver sues you for the accident, your hired auto accident lawyer in Sacramento will be unable to assist you if you have not notified the police.

·      Inform your insurance company

Always report a car accident to your insurance company, regardless of how minor. Most insurance plans require consumers to report any motor accident or incident to their insurance company. Even if a person has no intention of filing an insurance claim, they should notify their insurance company that an accident happened in case the other motorist decides to try their luck and file a claim for damages or personal injury.

When Should You Seek Legal Counsel?

While a minor auto accident with minimal damage is unlikely to result in a claim or the need for an accident attorney, having one on hand never hurts. Since nobody knows how the other people involved will respond, it’s best to be prepared for everything. If the other driver initiates a claims procedure, a skilled Sacramento Bicycle Accident Attorney can assist in terminating it and avoiding a needlessly drawn-out baseless lawsuit. Anyone can seek guidance after a minor vehicle accident to ensure they have covered all their bases.