More than 198,000 collisions occurred in Indiana in 2023. While crash severity varies widely, nearly 82% of these collisions were property damage only. That means that many Hoosiers find themselves needing to know what to do if they’re involved in a minor car accident.
What should you do if you’re in a minor collision, also sometimes referred to as a fender bender, in Indiana?
What to Do After a Fender Bender
It’s important to handle a minor collision appropriately just in case you need to file a claim. It might seem like no one is hurt and vehicle damage is minimal, but there’s a chance that damage or injury could be more serious than it seems.
If you’re in a fender bender, move your vehicle to the road shoulder if possible. Avoid passing traffic when communicating with the other driver. Check for injuries and seek medical attention if needed. Even a minor crash can cause whiplash or other injuries.
Exchange your contact information (name, address, and vehicle registration number) with the other driver. Take photos of the scene and record the details of the accident.
Contact Police and Insurance
Contact the police to report the accident, even if damage appears to be minor. A police report can be critical if the vehicle is more damaged than it appears. If the car accident involved injuries, fatality, extensive damage to vehicles, or damage to property beyond the vehicles (such as a street sign or guardrail), you’re required by Indiana law to contact the police.
Most insurance policies require you to report any accident involving another vehicle to your insurance company. Contact your insurance company to report the accident and start a claim to investigate the damage to your vehicle.
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
