Do I Need to Call the Police after a Minor Accident?
In the State of Pennsylvania, car accidents are divided into reportable accidents and those that are considered non-reportable. This means that you’re not required to notify the police if you’re involved in a minor fender-bender. Calling 911 after even a relatively minor accident, however, may be to your advantage.
If you were injured as a result of another driver’s negligence, one of the most important early steps you can take is consulting with an experienced Harrisburg car accident attorney at HGSK Injury Lawyers.
Determining Whether the Accident Is Reportable or Non-Reportable
Any accident in which one of the following applies is considered reportable, and you should call 911 as soon as you’re safely able to do so:
- The accident left someone injured, or it was a fatal accident.
- One of the cars involved was damaged to the point that it must be towed.
- The accident was a hit and run.
Under any of these circumstances, you should move your vehicle to a safe location, call the authorities, and exchange the necessary information with the other driver while you wait for the police. If someone else was injured, you should render aid to the best of your ability while you wait for the EMTs to arrive.
If the accident was relatively minor, no one was injured, and the other driver stopped to exchange contact, insurance, and license information with you, it’s considered a non-reportable accident. While this means that you’re not required to report it, you retain the right to do so, which may be in your best interest.
Considering the Involved Circumstances
Before you rule out alerting the police to the car accident you were involved in, it’s important to take several factors into account. Having a police report generated by the attending officer can bolster your claim if you go on to file one against the at-fault driver.
Potential Damage to Your Car
Even if you don’t believe your car was seriously damaged, you should keep in mind that looks can be deceiving. Virtually any amount of bodywork can lead to costly repairs. The impact of an accident can also cause hidden damage that can directly affect how your vehicle performs and how safe it is to drive.
Your Own Potential Injuries
While you may not think you were injured in the car accident, you should know that the shock and adrenaline rush you experience can mask a considerable amount of pain as well as other symptoms of injury. Further, very dangerous injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), soft tissue injuries, and spinal cord injuries, can be asymptomatic until they become even more serious. There is also your physical and emotional pain and suffering to consider.
If you suffered legal damages because of another driver’s negligence, bringing your strongest claim is paramount.
Consult with an Experienced Harrisburg Car Accident Lawyer Today
The well-respected Harrisburg car accident attorneys at HGSK Injury Lawyers will spare no effort in our quest to resolve your claim favorably and in support of your most complete recovery. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 267-551-8782 and scheduling a free consultation today.