According to statistics for 2021 in Albuquerque, there were 125 fatal car crashes resulting in 207 vehicles and 54 pedestrians being involved in these fatal accidents. If you are involved in an accident and the other driver doesn’t report it to the police or their insurance company, it can make the situation very difficult to deal with. This article will provide guidance on the steps to take if you find yourself in this situation after an accident in New Mexico.
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Exchange Information and Document the Scene
If the other driver is still present at the scene after the accident, the first thing you’ll want to do is exchange contact and insurance information with them. Get their name, phone number, address, driver’s license number, license plate, and insurance details. Even if they assure you that they’ll report it, having their information will help protect you if they fail to follow through.
You’ll also want to document the scene with photos or video if it’s safe to do so. Take pictures of the vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, road conditions, and any injuries sustained. Having photographic evidence could help demonstrate what happened if the other driver later denies involvement or faults you for the collision.
File an Accident Report
Regardless of whether the other driver says they’ll report the accident or not, you should file one yourself immediately with the police. In New Mexico, you’re required to report any accident that resulted in injury, death, or over $500 worth of property damage. Calling the non-emergency police number and having an officer come to the scene is ideal, as they will file an official report.
If the police can’t come, go to the nearest police station to fill one out yourself soon after the accident occurs. Having an official report from your perspective will help back up your version of events if needed. The other driver may try to place blame on you when reporting to their insurer if they failed to report it in a timely manner.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
You’ll also need to contact your own car insurance provider within a reasonable timeframe, such as 24 hours, to alert them to the accident. Provide them with details of what happened, any damage incurred, injuries sustained, and information you obtained from the other driver. This establishes a record of your side of the story and that you followed proper protocol even though the other motorist did not.
Your insurance company will advise you on the next steps regarding repairs, medical treatment, and claims processing. Having prompt and accurate details helps them determine fault and who will pay for damages. If the other driver later alleges different circumstances, your insurer already has your statement. Make sure to get your vehicle checked out by your insurance’s approved body shop.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney
If the other driver failed to report the accident to authorities or their insurer, they may not be cooperating or acting in good faith. According to Albuquerque car accident attorneys, consulting a lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure all proper steps are taken.
Being involved in a car accident is never a pleasant experience. If the other driver doesn’t uphold their responsibility to report it properly, you’ll need to take proactive steps to protect yourself. Following these tips will provide vital evidence and establish your account if the other motorist provides misleading details down the road. With the right preparation, you can better navigate the claims process even when the other driver fails to report.
