It happens all the time on Falconer streets and in parking lots. A driver hits another vehicle at slow speed. The damage is minimal. Nobody is hurt. So the drivers exchange insurance information and agree to leave it at that. Why call law enforcement for something so minor?
There are actually several vital reasons.
Why You Should Get A Police Report If You Are In A Fender-Bender
1. The other driver may sue you for damage you didn't cause.
2. You want a police officer to document the fender-bender.
3. You might need a police report to file an insurance claim.
4. An injury might not manifest until days later, and you will need the report.
5. The other driver and any witnesses may change their story in the days ahead. You want documentation to establish the facts—especially if you weren't at fault.
What If The Accident Happens On Private Property?
This situation can be confusing. In some states, officers don't come to private property if the accident didn't cause any injuries. In other states, you are only required to file a police report for automobile damage above a specific dollar amount. The problem is—how do you know how much it will cost to fix it? It's best to get a police report if you can.
What Do You Do In Case Of An Accident?
You have to exchange insurance information. No matter what. You cannot leave the scene of an accident without exchanging information. You should wait for a police officer to come—as we just established.
Some drivers involved in an accident don't want to report the incident to their insurance carrier. Usually, it's because they are afraid their insurance premiums will skyrocket. Regardless of what the other driver wants, you really should report it to your insurance company.
If you don't, you could relinquish some legal protections or insurance benefits. And you will probably get in trouble with your own insurer if they find out about the collision in some other way. You pay a lot of money to keep your vehicle insured. Don't give up protections because another auto owner tries to convince you that you can work it out with each other.
If you have been involved in a fender-bender, you need an auto service center that works with car insurance companies. At I-86 Truck & Auto Repair, we do insurance repairs to get you back on the road quickly. We can be reached at 716-665-2501.