Protecting You During Trying Times

What Happens if You Are at Fault in a Car Accident?

On Behalf of | Mar 1, 2019 | Car Accidents

Car accidents are frightening to everyone involved. Not just because of the traumatic event you have experienced—there are many legal issues that can seem quite overwhelming. What happens if you are at fault in a car accident?

These issues can, at times, be even more nerve-wracking for the person who was at fault in the car accident. They don’t know what their rights are. They also don’t how they’ll be treated by the legal system. Sometimes they won’t even be able to know if the other person was harmed or not.

Are you searching for what happens if you are at fault in a car accident? If so, you’re probably seeking answers to a firsthand experience or an experience of someone close to you. Take a deep breath and read on to find direction for what to do if this unfortunate event happens.

What Happens if You Are at Fault in a Car Accident?

If you cause a car accident, you should first make sure that all people involved are safe and uninjured if you are able to do so. You should then immediately report the incident to the police and exchange information with the other party.

If the accident is minor, you and the other driver may be tempted to avoid calling the police. It is very important that you do call though. These incidents need to be reported so they may be recorded in an official manner. You should also report the incident to your insurance provider.

In terms of financial responsibility for the accident, that will greatly depend on your insurance and where you live. For most people, if you are more than 50% responsible for the accident, you will be financially responsible. That means that your insurance premiums will probably increase too.

If the other person or persons were injured in the accident, there is a possibility that you might be sued for personal injury or negligence. If you have liability insurance, this is where that comes into play, although it may not cover what you are being sued for. You will be personally responsible for the difference. If this is the case, you should contact your car accident lawyer.

Causing a car accident can also be a very personally traumatic experience, and you may be at risk of PTSD. It is very important that you lean on your support system. If you can, schedule an appointment with a therapist during the following weeks as well.

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Have you or someone you know been at fault in a car accident recently? We hope that the information we’ve discussed here will be of help to you as you navigate the effects of this unfortunate experience. If you have any more questions about what happens if you are at fault in a car accident, please contact us. We will help you to the best of our ability.