Accidents happen despite your being careful and attentive behind the wheel. They can be especially frustrating and stressful when the other driver is at fault. One common scenario is hitting a car that ran a stop sign. You will be shocked to learn how many times good and attentive drivers have to suffer because their fellow drivers are nuisances on the road.
Hitting a vehicle that has ran a stop sign is way more serious than accidentally hitting a mailbox and driving away. You cannot simply ignore the distress caused to you by someone else’s reckless behavior.
Thus, if you ever find yourself in such a situation, there are some important steps you need to take immediately after the accident and in the days that follow in order to keep yourself safe.
This guide will walk you through each step that you need to take after you run into a ride that ignores the stop sign and crosses it.
Ensure Safety
The first and most crucial thing you need to do after the accident is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Check if anyone is injured, and call the emergency number if medical assistance is required.
Call The Police
It does not matter whether the accident seems minor or major; it is highly critical to report the incident to the police. The police report will document all the details of the accidents, which will help you dearly during your insurance claims and any potential legal actions.
Thus, when the police arrive, provide them with the right details of what happened without admitting fault. Do not get swayed by the other driver telling you that they failed to stop at a stop sign, that there was a broken stop sign, or any other excuse. Call the police as soon as you have ensured people’s safety on the spot.
Gather Necessary Information
It is highly essential for you to collect information at the scene. Every detail, even the minute one, can aid you in ways you cannot comprehend.
Here are a few things you need to collect on your end:
- Driver’s Details – Get the name, address, phone number, and insurance details of the other driver involved in the accident.
- Vehicle Information – Note down the make, model, year, and license plate number of the other vehicle.
- Witnesses – Check if there are any witnesses around. If so, get their contact information and, if possible, a brief statement of what they saw.
- Photos – Take pictures and videos of the accident scene, including the vehicle damage, street signs, and any relevant road conditions.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You also need to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you have collected, along with a copy of the police report (if available). In your accident account, be honest and accurate with your insurer.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if there was no need for immediate medical attention after the accident, it is still advisable to visit a doctor. Accidents, even minor ones, are hard on the fragile human body. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
So, visit a doctor, have yourself examined, and get a thorough medical report. A medical report can serve as evidence if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain a well-detailed record of all the documents related to the accident. This includes your medical bills, car repair receipts, insurance correspondence, and any other related expenses.
These detailed records will help you during insurance claims and any potential legal proceedings.
It does not matter whether you own a luxury car with a white interior or an economical Nissan Versa; you cannot be lenient when someone else is responsible for your miseries. Because if you are, you might end up paying for everything out of your pocket.
Understand Fault and Liability
When you are involved in an accident where the other driver or car ran a stop sign, they are typically considered at fault. However, this fault determination can become complex, depending on the local traffic laws and the specifics of the accident.
The insurance companies of both parties involved in the accident will investigate and determine liability based on the evidence provided.
Consider Legal Advice
If the accident results in any significant damage or injuries, it might be beneficial for you to consult a personal injury lawyer. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process easily, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your loss and distress.
Stay Calm And Patient
Being in an accident (where you hit a car that ran a stop sign or a car that ran a stop sign hits you) and dealing with its aftermath can be stressful. However, it is important for you to stay calm and patient.
Insurance claims and repairs can take time. You must focus on following the proper steps for the claims and let the professionals handle the investigation and settlement.
Do not dismiss your well-being.
How Can We Prevent Future Accidents?
One of the most basic and crucial things all drivers need to learn and make peace with is that they cannot control the actions of other drivers. With this clarity in mind, you will be able to focus more on what you can do to keep yourself out of trouble. There are a few steps that we recommend you take in order to keep yourself safe on the road.
Stay Alert
Always be aware of your surroundings while driving. Watch out for fellow drivers who are reckless and may not obey traffic rules. You can separate yourself from them based on their driving style or manner. For example, if a driver is driving over the speed limit or overtaking unnecessarily, steer away from them and maintain your distance.
Avoid Loud Music
Never listen to loud music when you are driving. It does not matter whether there is high traffic or no traffic at all. Hearing loud music while driving can impair your judgment on the road. So, avoid blasting off your car’s roof.
And if you still want to hear music, keep the volume low so that your senses are aware of your surroundings, and you can respond immediately to other drivers’ honking and other signals.
Do Not Use Phone
Another common reason why many people despite following all the traffic rules find themselves in the accident situations is that they are distracted by their phones.
Please avoid using them when you are behind the wheels. Avoid engaging in calls or making reels for your entertainment. Your safety is the most important thing. Thus, focus on reaching your destination safely and then you can enjoy your smart device as much as you like.
Drive Defensively
Anticipate potential hazards like slippery road, too much snow, road under construction, another driver overspeeding or loosing control, and other similar scenarios, and be prepared to react quickly. Always have your eyes on the road.
Follow Traffic Laws
Finally, follow the traffic laws strictly. It does not matter how experienced of a driver you are, always abide by traffic signs and signals to ensure you are not the one causing a potential accident.
In conclusion, hitting a car that ran a stop sign is a stressful experience. For some, it might become extremely hard to navigate the situation, but not anymore. By following the steps mentioned in this guide, you can handle the scenario properly and protect your rights.
Remember to stay calm, gather the necessary information and evidence, and consult a professional when required. Being proactive and informed allows you to navigate the aftermath of any accident with confidence and peace of mind.
