When you get into a car accident, one of your first thoughts will probably be to call the police. Do you really have to involve the cops after a car accident though? You are actually required to call them in certain situations, and even if it felt like you did not “need” to call the police after a crash you could still benefit by having them come out to the scene. A Prince George’s County car accident lawyer can tell you what we mean by that.
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
First, let’s talk about what you should do after a car accident to protect yourself and build a case. We recommend that you:
- Get all vehicles moved somewhere safe
- Take pictures of the cars, the accident scene, and your injuries
- Exchange information with any involved drivers or witnesses
- Avoid making any statements that could be seen as taking the blame
Then you should call the police so that a report can be made.
When Do You Have to Call the Police After a Car Accident?
You are required to call the police after a car accident if certain criteria are met. In Maryland, you must involve law enforcement if:
- Someone was hurt
- A driver involved was inebriated
- A driver will not exchange information
- A driver is not licensed
- Someone flees the scene
- A vehicle is damaged enough that it must be towed
Police will come out and make a report. Then this report can be used by the insurance companies or deployed as evidence in a personal injury case.
Nearby states have similar rules. So if you get into a crash in Washington, D.C. or Virginia, you should also assume that calling the police is a necessity if there’s been an injury or serious damage.
What Are the Benefits of Calling the Police After a Crash?
Even if you do not meet the legal requirements to call the police, it can still be a good idea to get an officer to come out to the scene. Calling the cops can protect you if:
- Damage to your car is more expensive to repair than you expected
- You didn’t notice that you were injured right away
- The other driver gives you false information
When Can I Sue For Damages?
You can sue for damages after a car accident if you have serious injuries. Our lawyers can help you negotiate a fair settlement that compensates you for things like property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If we cannot reach a settlement, we’ll help you build a case that can succeed in court.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer
So if you were in a car accident and you plan to sue for compensation, talk to an experienced personal injury attorney. Contact McCarthy, Winkelman & Mester, L.L.P. to schedule your free case consultation today. We would love to tell you more about how we can be of assistance.
