23 Oct A Rule to Remember: Always Report a Traffic Accident

It may seem that in the case of a minor fender bender, it may not be necessary to go through the formal process of reporting the accident and filing a traffic report. You may think that doing this will negatively affect you in many ways, so it may be your first instinct to pretend that the accident never happened, or to repair any damage at your own cost. However, there are many reasons why filing a report, no matter how minor the accident, is beneficial. Let’s take a look at why it is always in your best interest to take the necessary step of reporting the accident, even when there are no injuries, and little or no damage.

You Will Want The Official Written Record In Order To Back Up Your Story

Everyone has heard the saying that “there are two sides to every story”. This could not be truer in the case of a car accident. You may know for certain that you were driving at the posted speed limit, and did not run any red lights or stop signs. However, the other party involved may very well have a different story in mind. If you have a minor accident and agree to not report it at the time that it occurs, you run the risk of the other party telling a different story. Without the official written police record, it makes it extremely difficult to prove which driver is telling the truth. The other driver may say that you were speeding, or that you violated another traffic law. For this reason, a report should always be filed immediately following an accident of any caliber.

The Details Of The Accident Will Be Fresh In Your Mind

When you immediately report a traffic accident, you will be able to officially get all of the details in writing before they are forgotten. Even minor car accidents can cause drivers to become flustered, and you may tend to forget important details if days or weeks go by without filing a report. There may be important details that are vital for insurance reasons, so you’ll want to record everything before these details slip your mind. Remember to report everything, no matter how insignificant it may seem. You never know when the smallest details can help you later down the road.

A Written Report Helps To Prove Liability And Helps Everyone Reach A Favorable Solution

At a later point in time, you may need to prove which driver was liable for the accident. Without a written report, this is extremely difficult to do and may become one person’s word against the other. After an accident, you should never admit that you were at fault. When filing the report, simply provide the details as honestly and completely as you can. The insurance companies will use the written report, as well as any witness statements, photographs and other evidence to prove liability for what has happened. Another extremely important thing to remember is to stay as calm as possible. You’ll be able to better provide details of the accident if you are not upset or agitated.

A written report following an accident helps to protect you, even if you are certain that you were not at fault for the accident. While you may be concerned with factors such as an increase in insurance premiums if you file a report, remember that not reporting the accident is not in anyone’s best interest. It is much easier for the insurance companies of all involved drivers to reach a favorable solution if they have an official reference stating exactly what happened at the scene of the accident. Always remember that RA & Associates, APC are experts in helping you protect your legal rights, so contact us after an accident, or for more information.