Do You Have to Call the Police After a Minor Car Accident?
- January 9, 2020
- Sandy
SAN DIEGO — Car accidents are overwhelming experiences that often leave you feeling frazzled and unsure of what to do next. After a minor car accident such as a fender bender or a single-car accident, one of the most common questions asked by people ask is “Do I need to call the police?” One of our best car accident lawyers in San Diego explains when a call to the police is required after an accident and best practices for obtaining and relaying the appropriate information.
When Should I Report a Car Accident to the Police?
When it comes to car accidents, the best rule to follow is, if you’re in doubt – always call the police. Whether the accident is large or small, a San Diego car accident lawyer says calling the police is the right choice because it creates official documentation of the event and serves as a point of reference for insurance companies and attorneys.
There are a few situations in which calling the police following an accident is absolutely essential, including:
- The driver or passenger(s) of either car experienced injuries
- Minors under the age of 18 were involved
- Car vs. Pedestrian car accidents
- Damage to another person’s personal property
- Either car sustained major damage
Once an accident is reported to the police, they’ll ask for certain information to assist them in filling out an official incident report.
What Information Do I Give the Police After a Minor Car Accident?
After a car accident, it’s easy to get caught up in the moment and forget to document important factors such as damage, injuries, and the other party’s personal/insurance information. Filing a police report creates an official document that contains all the essential information you need for your claim and more. Police who arrive on the scene following a car accident may ask for information such as:
- Name, date of birth, address, phone number
- Insurance policy information
- Your personal account of the accident
- Eyewitness names
- Future contact information
- Car registration
- Driver’s license number
Knowing what information the police need after a car accident will help you feel more prepared and more at ease in the unfortunate situation.
Who Can Help Me After a Minor Car Accident?
There are times following a car accident when you’ll need to seek assistance from a professional. The most trusted source of advice following an accident is a knowledgeable and trustworthy car accident attorney in San Diego. Even if you’re not injured, an attorney can help walk you through the insurance process, explain your rights, and determine whether you’re entitled to compensation.
At The Barnes Firm, this service is FREE and their team of experienced car accident lawyers in San Diego are happy to help guide you through insurance claims process and go over your legal options with you.
A knowledgeable attorney could also help win compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Medical treatment plans
- Lost wages
- Future loss of wages
- Medical rehabilitation
- Pain and suffering
- …and more
If an attorney isn’t necessary for your case, a trustworthy legal professional at The Barnes Firm could help point you in the right direction.
Disputing Minor Car Accident Claims In San Diego
If you or someone you know has been injured in a minor car accident, it’s time to get legal counsel. The sooner you retain an experienced car accident lawyer in San Diego, the more likely you are to win the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical bills, and pain and suffering.
In San Diego, a top choice for car accident representation is The Barnes Firm. Their team of San Diego car accident lawyers have been winning cases for people all across Southern California, and their results speak for themselves.
To schedule a free consultation, call the team at The Barnes Firm today or contact them online for a FREE case evaluation.
The Barnes Firm (800) 800-0000
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