What every driver needs to know about accidents
At the first sight of a car accident, the emotions of a driver may be at an all-time high. Everything you need to know about being caught in a motor vehicle accident is right here. Always keep this information handy and pass it on to loved ones as it may help someone at the weakest moment in their life.
Staying at the scene and what you need to do thereafter
The very first step you need to take is to alert the police, before even attempting to exit your vehicle. Never leave the accident scene until you have been instructed to do so by the police. Many drivers speed off in fear, but that’s the last action you should take as it could lead to disciplinary actions. However, if your safety is compromised, you can move away from the scene but not too far away as you need to be there when the authorities arrive.
You may take photographs of any injuries that may have occurred, the surrounding area, damage to property and the scene of the accident from all angles. You may request personal information from any other party involved in the accident, such as their contact details and vehicle registration number. Also, make a note of the time, date and address of where the accident occurred.
What you should not do
You may not move your vehicle, unless an officer of the law requires you to do so. Avoid discarding any evidence such as important documents, defective products, torn or blood-stained clothing. Should there be a second party involved in the accident, do not enter into settlement agreements with the other party without discussing it with your attorney present. LegalWise law experts advise that you not enter into a debate about who is to blame for the accident, admitting to liability may be used against you as evidence in court. Should you happen to be at fault, consult your attorney beforehand.
When you don’t have insurance
Whether it’s pre-owned Volkswagens, BMW’s or any other car, there will have to be payments made to the vehicles that were in the accident. If the damage of the vehicle was less than R15 000, then you can make a claim in the Small Claims Court, but if the amount exceeds R15 000 then you are going to require legal representation for your case.