Car Accidents – FAQs

Q. Do I need to call the police if I have been involved in an accident?

It is always best to call the police and have the officer file an accident report, regardless of how minor the car accident is. This way, you will have an official record of the accident, which may come in handy if problems develop with the third party later on, or if injuries, such as whiplash, manifest themselves hours after the accident and you need to make an insurance claim.

Q. What information do I need to collect from the third party?

It is a good idea to keep a piece of paper in your glove compartment that lists the information you need to obtain from the third party. This way, even if you are agitated or upset after an accident, you will be sure to get the right information. Some of the important information you need to obtain is: the driver’s name, address, driver’s license number, license plate, make and model of vehicle (of all vehicles involved in the accident), insurance information and policy number, names and telephone numbers of the passengers, if any, as well as the personal details of as many witnesses of the accident as you deem necessary.

Q. When do I need to contact my insurance company?

As soon as possible after the car accident, contact your insurance company, even if you may not be making a claim. This is especially important if the third party involved in the accident is uninsured or under-insured. If it is not clear who was at fault, tell your insurance company and they will contact the insurance company of the third party and settle the dispute. If you do not contact your insurance company in a timely manner, they may deny claims.

Q. Do I need a lawyer?

Not all accidents will require a lawyer. In complicated cases, which may involve several victims, uninsured drivers, negligence or death, a lawyer can help accident victims. Lawyers will be able to help you navigate insurance jargon and make sure you have a valid claim; they can also help you obtain damages or help prove liability.