I recently got into a minor accident and I’m second-guessing my decision.
Today, I rear-ended someone after a girl unexpectedly crossed the crosswalk, causing the car in front of me to brake suddenly. I couldn’t stop in time and bumped into him, resulting in minor damage to my car and a small dent on his license plate. He didn’t seem too concerned about it, saying his car was already in rough shape.
Since I was the one who hit him, I thought there was no need to exchange insurance information, especially since I believed my insurance wouldn’t cover my damages due to my fault in the accident. I also thought that if I file a claim, my rates might go up, but I could be wrong about that.
When I told my mom what happened, she was upset that I didn’t at least get his license plate number because she wants to report it to our insurance company. I tried to convince her not to, thinking it would just lead to increased premiums without much benefit.
This was my first experience with a traffic accident, and now I’m wondering what I should have done differently. Any advice?
It’s understandable to feel uncertain after your first accident, especially when it involves another vehicle. Here are a few things to consider:
Accident Reporting: It’s usually a good idea to exchange insurance information, even if the other driver seems okay with the situation. This protects both parties in case complications arise later on, such as hidden damages or injuries.
Insurance Claims: If you’re at fault, your insurance may not cover your damages, but it’s always best to consult with them directly. Different policies have different rules regarding coverage and premium increases.
Documentation: Documenting the scene—taking pictures of the cars, getting the other driver’s information, and noting the circumstances—can be helpful. If there were witnesses, their statements may also be beneficial.
Consulting Your Insurance: It might be worth discussing the incident with your insurance company, even if you decide not to file a claim. They can provide guidance based on your specific situation and policy.
Long-term Considerations: Insurance premiums can increase after any claim, but it’s important to report accidents accurately. Not doing so could lead to complications in the future if the other driver decides to make a claim later.
Going forward, if something similar happens, try to remain calm and collect as much information as possible. Don’t hesitate to involve insurance for advice or to help navigate any claims. It’s a learning experience; you now have more insight into what to do next time!