When you think about a head-on car collision, you probably think about a strong impact experienced at an intersection located on a busy road or rural highway. The accident can happen when another vehicle suddenly veers over into your lane and smacks into the front of your car. Another possible example of a head-on collision occurs when another motorist runs into your, as you attempt to make a left turn onto another street.
However, many head-on collisions unfold in the parking lots of grocery and department store parking lots. Distraction or a vehicle malfunction can cause a head-on crash. Whatever the reason for an accident involving two vehicles head-on, both drivers have to decide whether the accident is significant enough to call police. If you decide not to contact a local law enforcement agency, the ramifications of no police report in a head-on collision can come back to bite you.
Reasons You Do Not Need a Police Report
In the parking lot example, both cars were not moving fast enough to cause considerable damage to either vehicle. If you cannot detect any vehicle damage and both drivers appear to be in good shape, then you might not need a police report because neither driver will file an insurance claim.
Nonetheless, you should at least call the closest law enforcement agency to see what the responding officer thinks. He or she might give you both the green light to collect all the information you need on your own.
If you decide not to contact a law enforcement agency and obtain an official police report, you should exchange information with the other driver. Information you need to exchange includes contact information that can be gleaned from a driver’s license. You also want to acquire the insurance information from the other driver to ensure he or she has enough liability insurance coverage to handle the costs of a vehicle accident.
Collecting Evidence in a Head-On Collision Case
The lack of a police report does not mean you can simply get in your vehicle and drive away. You still have to gather both physical and anecdotal evidence in case you decide to process an insurance claim.
Anecdotal evidence comes in the form of witness accounts of the accident, as well as getting a statement from the other driver. It is important to interview witnesses immediately after a car accident. You want the freshest account of the accident and you want to make sure none of the witnesses leaves the scene of the head-on collision.
How to Present a Persuasive Claim
Without a police report, expect an insurance claim to take longer to resolve. However, you can expedite the process by working with a state licensed personal injury attorney. Not only will your lawyer ensure you present convincing evidence, he or she will also handle a claim filed with your health care insurance provider.
A head-on car accident can cause physical injuries that do not reveal symptoms for days after the crash. Whiplash and deep muscle bruises can take some time to develop. You lawyer will work hard to file an insurance claim that covers your medical expenses. Complete the Free Case Evaluation today!
