Reporting a Southaven car accident to the police is often a legal requirement and is always in your best interest. Staying at the scene and exchanging information with others involved in the collision is also a requirement, and failing to do so could result in your arrest for hit-and-run.
While the state only requires an official report when there are bodily injuries or property damage, having the official police report when filing a claim for damages can substantially improve your outcome. Our experienced car accident attorneys at The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs can help you learn more about what to do next.
What Must Drivers Do After a Car Crash?
Ensuring that neither the driver nor passengers are injured is the first and most important task after a car wreck. After pulling over to a safe location, the driver must turn on the hazards to alert other drivers and call the local authorities. During the call, the driver must give their location, details about injuries and property damage, and the number of vehicles involved in the crash. The driver then needs to stay on the scene until police officers arrive.
In some cases, the police do not respond, particularly to minor collisions. If that is the case, those involved must exchange information with each other, including their names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details. The driver can subsequently file an official report either at the police station or online with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. When submitting the form, the driver must also print a copy of the report for their records. David and Elissa can help involved parties report a car crash to the Southaven police.
Reporting the Crash to the Auto Insurance Provider
A driver must report a Southaven automobile accident to their auto insurance provider as well as to the police, even if the injuries and the damage are minor. Most policies require prompt notification, regardless of fault, to avoid potential coverage issues or claim denials. Drivers should report the event as soon as possible, or at least within 48 hours, providing information about the collision.
The driver will need to provide the date, location, and description of the accident, as well as the names of all those involved, together with their vehicle information. The driver must be honest and report just the facts while avoiding speculation or admitting fault. Having experienced attorneys like David and Elissa handle the communication and negotiations with all drivers’ insurance companies is in the client’s best interest, as insurers may offer low settlement amounts and try to close the claim quickly.
How To Report Car Crashes
Drivers must follow Mississippi law after a collision to protect their rights and avoid additional penalties. Under Mississippi Code § 63-3-411, the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage of $500 or more must immediately notify the nearest law enforcement agency by the quickest means of communication.
These reporting requirements apply to crashes that occur on public roadways as well as on premises open to the public, including parking lots and shopping centers in Southaven. Promptly contacting the police ensures an official accident report is created, documents the circumstances of the collision, and helps preserve critical evidence that may be necessary for insurance claims and personal injury cases.
Contact a Qualified Attorney About Reporting a Car Crash to the Police in Southaven
Following state guidelines and reporting a Southaven car accident to the police as required by law is essential. After doing so, taking steps to protect yourself and preparing to file a claim with your insurance company or a case in civil court is also important.
We can provide you with sound legal advice and guidance throughout the process. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced lawyer at The Law Office of David E. Gordon & Elissa M. Coombs.
