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What to Do If You’re in a Car Accident on Private Property

Car Accident On Private Property

Car accidents can happen anywhere, including on private property. But do you know what to do if you find yourself in such a situation? Whether it’s a parking lot, driveway, or any other private area, accidents on private property can be complex. In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential steps to follow if you’re involved in a car accident on private property, all while keeping in mind that your interests are best protected with professional legal guidance.

Understanding Private Property

Private property refers to any area away from public roads or government buildings. Even though it’s not a public space, auto accidents can occur, leading to injuries. If you’re the injured party due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries.

When Should You Involve the Police?

In the event of a car accident on private property, involving the police may not always be necessary. However, it becomes crucial if any of the following conditions are met:

– The accident resulted in damage to government-owned property.

– Someone sustained injuries or died in the private property accident.

A police report can be invaluable when seeking full compensation for your injuries. Therefore, it’s a good practice to contact the police if any of the above circumstances apply.

Identifying the Offender Who Left the Scene

It can be frustrating if the other party involved in the accident leaves the scene without stopping. But you can take steps to help the police locate the offender. If possible, capture essential details such as:

– The color, model, and make of the car.

– The driver’s appearance.

Additionally, if there are security cameras on the private premises, they can provide valuable evidence. The police report resulting from this information can be crucial when filing for personal injury damages with the insurance company.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

No matter how minor your injuries might seem initially, seeking immediate medical attention is essential. Some injuries are not immediately visible but can worsen over time. Furthermore, the medical report is critical evidence your attorney will need to pursue compensation on your behalf.

Contacting Your Insurance

Before contacting your insurance company, it’s advisable to get in touch with an experienced car accident attorney. Insurance companies may attempt to offer inadequate compensation, but a personal injury lawyer can ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. Making these phone calls promptly while your memory of the events is still fresh is crucial.

Informing the Property Owner

Whether the property owner is at fault or not, informing them about the accident is necessary. They might possess additional information that can help establish fault more efficiently. For instance, on-site security cameras or their statements (if they witnessed the incident) can be valuable for personal injury claims.

The Role of Security Camera Footage

Security camera footage can play a pivotal role, especially if the offending driver disputes their fault in the accident. While this footage is private property, your personal injury lawyer can subpoena it for litigation purposes.

Documentation is Key

Collecting and documenting evidence is crucial when pursuing full compensation. Ensure you gather data such as:

– Any available security camera footage.

– Contact information of witnesses present at the accident site.

– Contact information of all parties involved.

– Photographs of the accident scene.

– Details regarding the location, weather, date, and time.

– Vehicle registration information for all vehicles involved.

– Drivers’ license details of the drivers.

The Importance of Photos

Photos are especially important as they can:

– Help establish responsibility for the accident.

– Record injuries sustained.

– Indicate the main cause of the accident.

– Highlight any contributing factors.

Determining Liability

In private property accidents, liability can be attributed to various parties:

– The Property Owner: If the property itself contributed to the accident, the owner may bear partial liability. This includes factors such as faded direction signage or poor construction.

– One Driver: If one driver is found entirely at fault, they are responsible for all damages.

– Both Drivers: In some cases, both drivers may share fault based on state laws.

Conclusion

An accident on private property can be perplexing, especially when police involvement is not guaranteed. Insurance companies may not always offer adequate compensation. That’s why seeking legal representation is essential to protect your rights. A personal injury lawyer is your best ally in navigating the complexities of these situations. If you are injured in such an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury lawyer near you. They will provide the legal guidance you need to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Remember, your interests are best served when you have a knowledgeable professional by your side. At Angell Law Firm, we take car accidents on private property seriously. We are committed to helping you receive the compensation you deserve.

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