Experiencing a car accident can be stressful. However, understanding the immediate steps you need to take can help simplify the process and reduce stress. Whether the accident occurred while you were driving or while your car was parked, knowing what to do next can significantly impact the outcome.
Moreover, seeking legal advice from a highly experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer can help you navigate the process and provide you with peace of mind.
Immediate Action After the Accident
After your car gets hit, your initial thought is likely to be, “Someone hit my car. What should I do next?” Your response may vary depending on the severity of the impact, which can range from minor inconveniences to potentially life-altering situations. Here’s what you should do immediately after someone hits your car:
- Ensure Safety: After being involved in an accident, it’s important to prioritize the well-being of everyone involved. Check for injuries and call 911 if anyone is severely hurt.
- Move to a Safe Location (if possible): If no one is injured and the hit is minimal, move your vehicle to the side of the safe area to prevent further damage.
- Turn on Hazard Lights: Remember to turn on your hazard lights to alert other motorists and avoid additional accidents.
- Report to the Authorities: Regardless of the accident’s severity, ensure you report the incident to the police for proper documentation, which you can use in case you decide to file a claim.
- Exchange Information: Obtain contact number, name, license plate, driver’s license number, and insurance details from everyone involved.
- Document and Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene and vehicles, gather statements from eyewitnesses, secure surveillance footage, and watch dashcam if possible.
By following these steps, you can protect yourself and ensure a smoother process in dealing with insurance and any potential legal issues.
What to Do If Your Car Gets Hit While Your Car Is Parked
If you discover that someone has hit your parked car, it is crucial to take assertive action. Whether in a busy parking lot or on a quiet street, meticulously document the damage and take immediate steps to address the situation.
On top of the immediate actions you need to take, consider these additional steps:
- Look for a Note: Sometimes, the person who hit your car may leave a note with their contact and insurance information. If there’s no note, inform the authorities about the incident for proper documentation and inform your insurance company as well.
- Repair Process: Follow your insurance company’s instructions for repairing your vehicle based on your coverage and the severity of the damage. It’s important to keep detailed records of any repairs and costs associated with the incident.
- Legal Options: If you are facing challenges with your insurance claim or if you are unable to identify the responsible party, it might be beneficial to seek advice from a skilled lawyer.
Following these additional steps can help you navigate the process of dealing with a hit-and-run or a collision where your car was parked, ensuring that you can effectively address the damage and any associated costs.
Insurance Considerations
The impact on the cost of your insurance premium depends on a couple of factors. First, it depends on who is at fault for the accident, and second, it depends on the type of coverage you have. If another party is responsible for hitting your car, their insurance should cover the costs of repairing the damage.
However, if you need to file a claim with your own insurance company, Nevada law ensures that your premiums will not be increased, nor will your policy be canceled. And in cases where the responsible driver flees the scene, having uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage can be particularly beneficial.
What If the Other Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If the party responsible for the collision with your vehicle doesn’t have insurance, there are still other options.
- Police Report: Contact the authorities and file a police report to officially document the incident.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: You can utilize it to mitigate the financial impact of any damages or losses incurred. This coverage serves as a protective financial alternative in unforeseen circumstances such as this.
- Take Legal Action: Seek advice from a car accident lawyer to understand other potential options for recovering expenses through the legal process.
Consult With An Experienced Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
Understanding what immediate actions to take after someone hits your car can save you from financial burdens and stress. At The Schnitzer Law Firm, we know how inconvenient such incidents are. Hence, we are ready to provide outstanding legal assistance to ensure you get rightfully compensated for all damages from the accident.
Schedule a complimentary consultation with our experienced Las Vegas car accident attorneys by calling (702) 960-4050 today!