Every year, motor vehicle accidents cost the country about $35,000. There is no doubt that car accidents lead to both non-fatal and fatal injuries. Due to this, many people end up hiring lawyers and looking for a reprieve for their damages.

That is tricky business when the other person decides to blame you for causing the accident. But, how do you prove car accident fault?

The answer lies in your steps immediately following the crash. Continue reading this article about how to clear your name and prove fault in a car accident. 

Call Emergency Services

Above all, the first thing you want to do is call 911. Everyone’s safety on the scene is of the utmost importance. Check on the other person to ensure they do not have life-threatening injuries.

Even if you don’t believe you are hurt, call for emergency services anyway. You never know what health issues may arise immediately following an accident. 

Exchange Information 

Exchanging information is critical to the process. Be sure you write down the person’s tag number. That way, if they decide to flee, you have their license plate to give to the police.

Next, ask for the other driver’s:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Email
  • Insurance company

Having this information ready for the police and our lawyer will make the process of proving fault run as smoothly as possible. 

Take Pictures

Take as many pictures as possible. Physical proof of your damages will strengthen your case during the dispute.

Use your phone or camera to snap photos of both exterior and interior damages. Also, take note of any personal items damaged in the crash. If you have injuries or bruises, take pictures of those, as well. 

Get a Police Report and Other Records 

After the police arrive and investigate, they will write up a police report. You have every right to ask for a copy of that report. Along with that, keep any proof of medical or hospital bills.

If you have injuries that require you to seek medical attention, you are liable for compensation. That way, you can provide it to both your car accident lawyer and your insurance company. 

Check to See if Your State Is a No-Fault or At-Fault State  

You will want to know what fault determination laws your state recognizes. And at-fault car accident states mean that whoever is determined responsible for the crash will pay the expenses.

Well, their insurance company will, at least. So, if you prove that the other person is at fault, their insurance company will provide compensation. However, if you live in a no-fault state, both of your insurance companies will separately pay for each person’s damages. 

Hire a Lawyer to Prove Car Accident Fault 

As you can tell, the initial steps after an accident will determine how you can prove car accident fault. Remember, always take pictures and exchange information.

After that, you want to get a copy of the police report and document your injuries caused by the crash. After that, you want to hire a car accident lawyer like us here at Reed and Reed.

We offer some of the most professional lawyers around. No doubt, our team will help you prove you are not to blame and gain your car accident compensation. If you are involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, contact us right away.