If you or anyone you know has been involved in a Tampa car accident, the general rule of thumb to follow is to contact the authorities. While there are a few car accident instances that can be exempted from involving the authorities, it is always necessary to contact law enforcement to investigate a car accident. This step is important in order to protect your legal rights after a car accident. The other important general rule for such situations is to see the services of a car accident lawyer. A car accident lawyer in Tampa FL could help with legal advice and help you navigate the best course of action to take regarding your car accident case.
When Should You Contact Law Enforcement After a Car Crash?
For many states, it is a requirement to call the authorities that have resulted in fatal injuries, death, or property damage. Once law enforcement arrives on the scene of a car accident, they collect information on all persons involved in the car crash, conduct preliminary investigations of the accident, and may issue tickets to any driver who’ll be found to have broken traffic laws. Motorists should be highly cautious of suggestions to not inform authorities from fellow motorists. This is because the other driver may provide false insurance details and identification or turn the blame on you when you leave. Choosing not to inform the authorities may risk you not getting compensation for the damage caused or treatment for injuries after a car accident.
Why Must I Contact My Insurance After a Car Accident?
The relationship between you and your insurer is defined by the policy agreement you signed after purchasing the policy. It is under this contract that insurance companies set out requirements for when you can contact them after a car accident. It is important to notify your insurer after a car accident and provide them with information about the parties involved in the accident, the type of accident that has occurred, and the location of the accident. Insurance companies generally try to find any falseness or mistake in order to absolve them from having to pay the claim, which is why you need the help of an attorney. An attorney may help you come up with the best plan in order to cater to your interests.
How Is Fault Determined in a Car Accident?
A police crash report will often provide a basis for evidence by insurance companies and lawyers. Certain circumstances, like when evidence arises after an accident, could clearly show the party responsible for the accident and other damage. Determination of fault from an insurance company could affect your case, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the findings are final. There are instances when you can challenge the fault determination and proceed to request a determination of fault in court instead.
Though it may be a tedious process, a car accident case could be made easier if you hire the services of a professional lawyer, who will help you in making the right legal decisions during the process.
