Following an accident where you were not at fault, you may be left wondering if you must pay after someone else hit your car. The short answer is, if you are not responsible for the accident, you are not required to pay for it. Even so, there may be some costs you will be obliged to pay upfront.
At The Barnes Firm you will find California and New York’s top accident lawyers who will explain the benefits of a successful claim to compensate you for those costs. You will want legal representation to guide you through the nuances of the law and answer your questions regarding the accident, insurance coverage, and any injuries incurred to ensure you get the best result. Here, learn more about what to do if someone hits your car.
At the Scene of the Accident
If someone hits your car, the first step is to get medical attention if needed and then call the police. If your car was hit while parked, you should call the police immediately. The police will document and investigate the incident and create an official accident report which you will need when filing your claim. It is also helpful to get the name and badge number of the responding officer. Document the accident and damage to your vehicle. Note the exact location, the time of day, and weather conditions. Take pictures of your vehicle as well as any other damage or supporting evidence (skid marks, debris, etc.).
Contact Your Insurance Carrier
Next, notify your insurance carrier as soon as you can and provide the information to begin your claim. If your car was parked when hit and the driver left a note, share the information with the police as well as your insurer. Your insurance company will then work with the other driver’s insurance company to settle the claim.
If your accident involves a hit-and-run driver, your insurer may classify the hit-and-run driver as an uninsured driver. The penalties for hit-and-run vary from state to state, depending on vehicle damage and physical injuries. Some states regard hit-and-run accidents as felonies.
Depending on your insurance coverage, insurance may cover the costs of your accident. Collision coverage will help pay to repair or replace your vehicle when it is hit by another vehicle, even if the at-fault driver cannot be located. Uninsured motorist coverage, if available in your state, may pay for repairs if your car is hit by an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run driver. In both instances, you may be responsible for a deductible as well as subject to policy limits.
Call on The Barnes Firm After Any Accident
Following any car accident, including those in which your car was hit by another driver while you were in the car or if it was a hit-and-run, call on the experienced team at The Barnes Firm for answers to your questions and the guidance you need. In New York and California, The Barnes Firm provides FREE consultations with the top car accident lawyers in the country who can help you get your car paid for by the at-fault party along with any other compensation you deserve. The Barnes Firm is here to help you 24/7. Call (800) 800-0000 for a FREE consultation to discover your legal options.
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car accident attorneys , Car accident Lawyers , Car Accident Lawyers California , hit and run
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