A driver is likely to experience a car accident at least once in their life. While still at the car accident scene, you have dialed 911 and told the dispatcher what happened and your location. Anxious and impatient, you wait for the police to arrive but it is taking a while. Ten, twenty, or even thirty minutes later, still no police officer around. What do you do? Can you solve this matter on your own or do you have to wait for the police?
First of all, you need to remain calm. In a situation like this, it is normal to feel nervous, panic or even anger. But you need to keep your emotions under control to think straight and recall what exactly happened. See if anyone is injured or in an unsafe position and provide help if needed.
Next, you need to exchange information with the other party. The necessary information includes the name, address, drivers license and insurance number of the other driver. If possible, you should also get the phone numbers of those involved in the accident along with the license plate numbers and vehicle models. It is best to try gathering as much information as possible, as it can prove useful later on.
Take Notes and Photos
Taking notes and photos of the crash will help you later in deciding who is liable. Also, keep in mind that you will have to fill out a report document to submit later to your insurance.
You might wonder if it is necessary to call the police if no one was injured. It is better for you to call the police anyway, because the person who caused the accident can change their mind later, even if they admitted responsibility at the car accident scene, thus making it very hard for you to obtain compensation. Remember that the insurance company of the other party will most likely take their side, as they would rather not pay the compensation required. You need the police to be present to talk to the other party, collect statements from witnesses, and make factual observations.
The Police Has Not Shown Up. Should I Leave the Car Accident Scene?
If you or another person has a severe injury, you cannot afford to leave, even if you have an urgent matter to attend to. Leaving the accident scene in a situation like this can result in having a claim filed against you and revoking your driving license. So even if the police are late, do not leave the scene. Instead, wait for them. Call them again, notify the dispatcher that you have already called once, and specify how much time has passed. The police must know that they are late to the car accident scene.
When police officers arrive, be careful with what you say. Just because you think you are at fault does not necessarily mean that this is actually the case. Do not say something false out of confusion. Incoherent statements can make it harder for you to be compensated for your losses.
In the case of a collision with an unattended vehicle, you must attempt to locate its owner in the vicinity of the car accident scene. If you can’t find that person, leave a note on the damaged vehicle with your name, address, and registration number. You can also add your phone number and a brief description of the accident.
What Indiana Law Says About Car Accidents
Laws can differ from state to state. In the case of Indiana, it is a “fault” state, which means the at-fault party’s insurance can be required to compensate the other party for medical bills and vehicle damage.
Indiana drivers are required to have car insurance. If involved in a car accident in Indianapolis, it is likely that you will be dealing with an insurance company. Indiana is a “fault” insurance state, which means that the party who is less than 50% at fault can choose whether to file a claim with their own insurance company or the insurance company of the party at fault. A claims adjuster will use the evidence available to decide who was at fault.
Consult with an Indiana Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you are the victim of a car accident in Indianapolis, Indiana and suffered a severe injury, call Rowe & Hamilton today for a free consultation to discuss your case and consider your legal options. Obtaining compensation for the injuries caused by an irresponsible driver can be a complex process, and our assistance will help you ease your worries and build a strong case.
