What do you do after a non-injury fender bender? Even without injuries, taking the right steps after a minor car accident can protect your rights and prevent future disputes.
Reporting the crash, documenting the scene, exchanging insurance information, and consulting a reputable Duluth car accident lawyer are all essential to ensuring a smooth claims process.
Move to a Safe Location and Assess the Damage
After a non-injury fender bender, leaving your vehicle in the middle of the road increases the risk of another collision. Other drivers may not react in time to avoid a stopped car, leading to further accidents and injuries. If your vehicle is still operable, moving it to the shoulder or a nearby parking lot can help prevent additional damage.
Before stepping out of your vehicle, assess the situation for any immediate dangers. Look for leaking fluids, smoke, or deployed airbags, as these could indicate a mechanical issue or fire risk. If your vehicle is safe to exit, check the extent of the damage and ensure that no parts are at risk of falling off or creating road hazards.
Georgia law requires drivers to remove disabled vehicles from the roadway whenever possible. O.C.G.A. § 40-6-275 states that drivers must move their vehicles to a safe location if they can do so without causing further damage. Following this law helps clear traffic congestion and reduces the risk of secondary accidents.
Proudly Serving Duluth and All of Georgia Contact us to start your recovery! Explore Our Practice Areas
Exchange Information With the Other Driver
Once your vehicle is in a safe location, exchanging information with the other driver is the next priority. Accurate details are essential for filing an insurance claim and proving liability if there is a dispute. To protect yourself, make sure you collect the following information from the other driver:
- Full name and contact details
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance provider and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- License plate number
If the other driver is uncooperative or refuses to provide their details, you can document their license plate and take photos of their vehicle. Writing down the time, location, and weather conditions can also help clarify the circumstances of the accident. Keeping thorough records after a non–injury fender bender ensures that your version of events is supported if questions arise later.
When to Call Law Enforcement for a Fender Bender
Not every fender bender requires a police response, but calling law enforcement is highly recommended. If the damage exceeds the state’s reporting threshold or if the other driver refuses to exchange information, notifying the police may protect your rights. Law enforcement can assess the situation, ensure that all required information is gathered, and create an official report.
A police report serves as an unbiased record of the accident, which can help resolve insurance disputes. If the other driver later changes their story or denies fault, the report provides details that support your version of events. Having law enforcement document the crash can also prevent fraudulent claims, ensuring that no false accusations are made against you.
Take Photos and Gather Evidence
Documenting the accident scene of a non-injury fender bender is one of the most important things you can do after a minor accident. Clear photos and written records help establish what happened and can prevent false claims against you. To ensure you have strong evidence, your Duluth personal injury lawyer recommends focusing on capturing the following details:
- Vehicle damage
- License plates
- Accident scene
- Skid marks and debris
- Road conditions
- Witness statements
- Video footage
Thorough documentation can strengthen your claim and help resolve disputes with the other driver or their insurance company. If you need to prove liability later, having detailed photos, witness statements, and video footage can support your case. The more evidence your lawyer gathers, the stronger your position will be when dealing with insurance adjusters.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Reporting the accident to your insurance company is an important step in protecting yourself after a fender bender. Even if the damage seems minor, your insurer needs to know about the accident in case hidden issues arise. Follow these steps to ensure your claim is handled properly:
- Step 1: Contact your insurer – Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Waiting too long may lead to delays in processing your claim or give the other driver time to file a conflicting report. Provide accurate details and avoid admitting fault until all evidence is reviewed.
- Step 2: Submit necessary documentation – Your insurer will ask for photos, witness statements, and a copy of the police report if one was filed. Clear documentation helps adjusters determine liability and assess vehicle damage. If you gathered strong evidence at the scene, your claim may be processed more quickly.
- Step 3: Review your coverage – Insurance policies vary, so confirm what is covered under your plan. If you have collision or uninsured motorist coverage, your own insurance may pay for repairs even if the other driver was at fault. Understanding your policy prevents unexpected costs later.
- Step 4: Get repair estimates – Your insurer may require you to visit an approved repair shop for an estimate. Comparing multiple repair quotes ensures that you are not overcharged and that all necessary repairs are covered. If the damage is extensive, your car may be considered a total loss, requiring further negotiations.
- Step 5: Follow up on your claim – Keep track of your claim status and stay in contact with your insurance adjuster. Delays can occur, especially if the other driver’s insurance company disputes liability. Consistent follow-ups help prevent unnecessary wait times and ensure your claim is processed fairly.
Taking these steps ensures that your insurance claim is handled correctly and that you receive the coverage you are entitled to. Providing strong documentation, understanding your policy, and staying proactive with follow-ups can prevent complications down the line. If disputes arise, having a detailed record of the accident and your communications with the insurance company can help protect your rights.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Protect Your Rights With Your Duluth Personal Injury Lawyer Today
When you do not know what to do after a non-injury fender bender, failing to take the proper steps can create problems when filing an insurance claim.
Your Duluth personal injury lawyer from Slam Dunk Attorney can help you handle disputes, negotiate with insurers, and pursue compensation if needed. Contact our firm today to discuss your options.
Call or text 404-951-3513 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
