Everyone on Earth absolutely hates the inconvenience of being in a car accident. On one hand, you have to deal with injuries and damages, and on the other hand, the interruption of your time is inconvenient enough. At least for many people.
To add to that, you will have to replace car parts, get a new car, or worse of all, tend to your injuries. This ordeal will most likely last months, and it is best to prove your innocence to make the process as smooth as possible.
How to Prove Your Innocence After a Car Accident
Because of the stress that comes with getting in a vehicle accident, you’ll probably do and say everything to get the process moving. This is because nobody wants to deal with the stress that comes with an automobile accident.
But according to an NYC car accident attorney, that could literally be the worst thing you could do. When you are involved in an automobile accident that is not your fault, follow these five procedures to help establish your innocence:
1. Gather Official Eyewitness Testimonies
Eyewitnesses might be crucial in demonstrating your innocence. Eyewitnesses have knowledge about the crash that no one else has. This information can be utilized by accident reconstructionists to figure out who caused the accident.
After a car crash, speak with eyewitnesses on your own. Use a cellphone to record their statements, or have them record a statement in print. If your injuries are too extensive to gather this information at the spot, you can do it later.
2. Call 911
Whether it’s a tiny fender-bender or a severe catastrophe, contacting the cops is critical, and in certain jurisdictions, legally mandatory. The police on the scene will complete an accident report and take photographs.
If the authorities are unable to attend to the accident scene, you must travel to the nearest police station and lodge a report yourself.
3. Never Admit Fault
Under no circumstances should you acknowledge blame. Whether you’re still on the scene or making a police statement, and especially not to the insurance company of the opposing party.
Humans are designed in such a manner that making an apology in the heat of the moment might be compelling. Even when we are not at blame, we have a tendency to do so. Keep in mind that law enforcement is in charge of establishing culpability, and keep your mouth quiet.
You should use your Miranda rights and only communicate with your lawyer in private.
4. Document the Accident
Get the cops’ names and badge numbers to identify them. Request a copy of the report of the incident for the reason of filing an insurance claim. Take down the personal details of all people involved, as well as any witnesses.
Also, take detailed photographs of your vehicles from various angles to indicate the extent of the damage to all affected vehicles. It’s also a smart option to photograph the license plate of the other vehicle. During the claims process, you can share photos with your insurer to assist substantiate your claim.
5. Hire a Car Accident Attorney
Assume the other motorist’s insurer denies culpability for your auto collision. In that scenario, you may need to employ an attorney to assist you in proving your innocence. To prevent unnecessary mistakes, it is advisable to engage an attorney as soon as possible.
This is because you could need to cover medical expenses and/or missed earnings. The quicker you get in touch with a lawyer, the better.
Improve Your Chances of Securing Full Compensation
When confronted with such a catastrophe, seek the advice of a capable, skilled litigator who is qualified to undertake the type of investigation that will establish your innocence. That may be your last chance to reclaim some form of normalcy following the disaster.
