What Should You Do in a Fender Bender if You Don’t Call the Police?
he Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requires that you contact law enforcement following a car accident if there are any injuries or fatalities or if property damage exceeds $1,000. Although you can call the police for a fender bender, with the rapid rate of minor crashes, there is no guarantee that an officer will arrive on the scene.
At Mette Attorneys at Law, we assist clients who have had big and small crashes impact them. Even victims of minor collisions can still suffer injuries, which can lead to exorbitant medical bills over time. Our team of professionals is committed to helping you recover maximum compensation, not leaving anything to chance.
If you have recently been involved in a fender bender, our personal injury attorneys discuss what steps you should take in a minor car accident and the importance of protecting your interests.
Move Your Vehicle
A fender bender typically involves two vehicles colliding at low speeds. Although this accident only results in minimal vehicle damage, it can startle you. Being in such a crash can cause you to sit stunned in the middle of the road. Even with your heart pounding in your ears, take a deep breath and move your vehicle off the road.
Call 911
Performing a visual examination is important to see if you have any outward injuries. If you do, or if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms such as a headache, nausea, vomiting, coordination or balance issues, or loss of bladder or bowel control, you need to call 911 immediately. The paramedics that arrive at the scene will assess your injuries and transport you to the hospital.
Take Photos and Retrieve Videos
A picture is worth a thousand words, especially regarding a car accident. In the aftermath of a crash, you should take as many pictures as possible, from various angles, of vehicle wreckage, skid marks, and the final resting position of both cars. If you can access a video of the collision, this may be helpful when filing your property damage claim. A video may be available through a bystander capturing footage on his or her cell phone, a video doorbell, or a dashcam.
Exchange Information
Following a fender bender (or any car accident for that matter!), you should exchange your full name, phone number, email address, insurance information, license plate number, and driver’s license number with the other drivers involved. Any or all of this information may be needed when submitting an insurance claim.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
At Mette Attorneys at Law, we understand that even a minor crash can leave you with medical expenses, which can be a hardship for anybody. Physical therapy can be expensive, even with the best insurance plans, so we are dedicated to helping clients retrieve the financial resources they need. If you have recently been injured in a fender bender, our legal team can help you recoup any accident-incurred expenses. To learn more or schedule your consultation, contact us online or at (717) 231-5219 today.