Involvement in any car accident is stressful. When you are at fault, whether it is entirely or partially, you might be feeling anxious about what comes next. Accidents happen, and it is important to hold yourself accountable for your wrongdoing as you would hope someone else would if they were at fault.
You and the other driver or drivers should report the accident to the police so they can file a report. Drivers need to exchange names, insurance information, phone numbers, and license plate numbers. If you have evidence such as photographs and documentation of your injuries, hold on to these so you have evidence.
You need to tell your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. If you refrain from doing this, you may miss out on coverage.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), car accidents cause hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations a year. Causing an accident or contributing to one may worry someone about their future and the well-being of those involved. You want to be informed on what happens if you are at fault for a car accident; remember that the situation can be resolved smoothly if everyone is compliant.
No-Fault and Fault States
If you live in a fault state, the person responsible for the accident will hold liability for anyone’s injuries. The other driver would file a claim with your insurance company, and you or your car insurance will pay for losses. In a no-fault state, however, each party’s auto insurance usually covers their losses.
Losses That May Qualify for Compensation
Having an insurance policy may prove helpful when you are at fault in an accident, but be aware that it may not be able to cover the losses fairly. You may not have to pay for anyone’s damages out-of-pocket unless the costs surpass your car insurance policy limits. If an injured driver takes you to court for more compensation than your policy can pay for, you may personally be responsible for their compensation.
If the other driver suffered serious injuries or there were fatalities, you may face a lawsuit. Your insurance company may come to an agreement on a settlement with the injured party, and going to court would not be necessary.
The losses that another driver can get covered by your insurance company include the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
As for your own damages, if you have collision coverage as part of your policy, it should cover your damages although you will still need to pay your deductible.
If You Are Partially at Fault
Two drivers would share fault in an accident, if, for example, they are both backing up in a parking lot and hit each other. Your percentage of fault will be determined, and your losses will be calculated. Your percentage of fault will reduce the amount of compensation you may receive.
A car accident lawyer can determine what your losses amount to and ensure your rights remain protected. A lawyer can ascertain that you are not paying more than is fair.
Your Car Insurance Rates
If you were at fault for a car accident, your car insurance rates may increase when you renew your policy. If you are curious about whether your car insurance rates will go up, contact your insurance company.
When you are wondering what happens if you are at fault for a car accident, remember you are not alone and that assistance is available.
A Car Accident Lawyer with Shaw Legal Solutions Can Help
If you are at fault or partially at fault for a car accident and want guidance, a car accident lawyer can handle your case. Acquiring a lawyer can help determine if you were truly at fault and help prevent you from paying an unfair settlement to the other party.
Call Shaw Legal Solutions today at 800-959-1444 for a free consultation with a member of our team. We fight for justice for our clients. Let us handle your case; do not wait to reach out for help.