If you have ever been involved in a traffic accident, you know the feeling you get in the pit of your stomach. Even a minor collision can be quite frightening when it happens. Some people even report witnessing their life flash before their eyes. Regardless, people are not in the best mental state during or immediately after an accident. With countless thoughts running through your mind, insurance may be put on the backburner. In a typical scenario, the other driver knows the accident was their fault, yet they don’t want insurance companies involved. Let’s take a look at this example and consider if you should find yourself in this situation.
Dealing with a car accident without insurance
It might surprise you to hear that it is quite common for people to avoid insurance when minor accidents happen. Usually, the person who suggests leaving insurance companies out of it wants to do this for one reason; to prevent an increase in their insurance premiums. Even small accidents can result in the at-fault party accruing hundreds of dollars in fees each month. In rarer situations, the driver will want to avoid insurance companies because they drive illegally or without a license.
Things to consider before you agree to anything
As much as you may empathize with the other driver, it is not in your best interest to keep insurance companies out of the equation. The main issue is that you can have a tough time collecting money from the responsible party. You must collect their name, address, phone number, address, and driver’s license number on a similar note. It is also highly advised that you take pictures of both vehicles and anything to help create the accident scene. Even if the other person is apologizing and taking responsibility, their story can change a few days later.
Most people don’t want to deal with an accident and want to forget it happened. It is up to you to fight this urge and make sure the book is doing things. Regardless of the accident, the damages, where it happened, or how it happened, it is always best to call the police when an accident occurs. The police report can help establish fault, and most insurance companies will ask to see the report as part of their assessment. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact a Salt Lake City car accident attorney to ensure your rights are being upheld.
