Talking to the Other Driver After an Alaska Auto Accident

 

While you exercise caution when driving and always aim to avoid being involved in a car accident, you can still be a victim of a crash, according to statistics from the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. On average every year, there are around 340 serious auto crashes causing serious bodily harm for 488 people. Even more victims are hurt in 3,100 minor collisions annually, with around 4,300 individuals suffering injuries.

You might be confused and overwhelmed about what to do in the aftermath of a crash. You know that you will need to speak to the other driver, but you may not know how to approach the conversation, which is an important one that affects your rights as a victim. Your Alaska auto accident lawyer will be by your side for much of the claims process, but the following key points should prove helpful:

 

DO Get ALL Contact Details. Alaska law requires you to exchange contact information with the other motorist when you are involved in a car accident that causes death or personal injury. You should make sure to obtain:

  • The driver’s name, address, and phone number;
  • Insurance details; and,
  • Vehicle registration information.

 

DON’T Say Too Much: Beyond the basics that are required by law, you should avoid discussing any topics related to the collision. Of course, if you are hurt and need assistance getting medical help, you should certainly request it. Do not reveal where you were coming from, going to, or what you were doing in the moments immediately preceding the crash.

 

DO Avoid the Topic of Fault: If you are following the “Don’t” listed above, you will not be talking about any issues related to who was responsible for causing the accident. However, the issue is so important it bears repeating: Never admit fault or say that your own actions may have contributed to the crash. Your words could be used against you down the road when you file an insurance claim for compensation.

 

DON’T Mention Your Injuries. Unless you need medical attention, you should not discuss or speculate on the nature and severity of your injuries. For one, unless you are a doctor, you are not in a position to make a self-diagnosis. Plus, you do not want the at-fault motorist telling the insurance adjuster that you admitted your injuries were minor. Your medical records should be the source of information regarding:

  • The diagnosis of your injuries;
  • How your injuries affect your life and job; and,
  • Your treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and medications.

 

Call Now to Speak to an Alaska Injury Lawyer for Free

Following these above tips can help you avoid challenges in recovering compensation from the responsible driver’s insurance company, but you will still need experienced legal counsel to advocate on your behalf. For more information about your rights and remedies, please contact Power & Power Law. We can set up a no-cost case evaluation at our offices in Anchorage, Alaska to discuss your options and explain the claims process.