Immediately after the accident. Check for injuries. Life and health are far more important than damage to vehicles. Leave vehicles where they came in contact unless they pose a safety risk to other motorists. This highway patrol would generally prefer it if you moved the vehicles from the highway if the damage is slight. If there are any injuries, make sure an ambulance is called and immediate medical attention is received. Remember -- regardless of fault, your own Minnesota automobile insurer will cover the cost of all reasonable and necessary medical treatment and transportation.
Call the police, even if the accident is minor. Get names, addresses, license plate numbers and insurance information from all persons involved in the accident. Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of anyone who may have witnessed the accident. Don't assume that police or other emergency officials will make a report or even get the information. If the driver of the other vehicle is not its owner, get the vehicle owner's name and address. In Minnesota, it is the owner - not the driver - that is primarily responsible for paying damages.
Important note regarding accidents in the city of Minneapolis. Minneapolis Police often will not make an accident report unless someone goes to the hospital by ambulance. This policy, in conjunction with the state of Minnesota's new privacy protections on vehicle and driver information has made it very difficult for the parties to prove or disprove fault, identify witnesses, responsible parties and their insurance information. Whether or not the accident seems serious, it is now more important than ever that you identify all important parties yourself. Before you leave the scene of the accident, you should get the name, address, and telephone number of the other drivers and the name, address, telephone number of the owner of the vehicles if different (in Minnesota, it is the vehicle owner - not the driver - that is primarily responsible for damages). Get the names and addresses of anyone who may have witnessed the accident or overheard conversations after the accident. Ask to see drivers licenses, insurance cards and write down the license plate numbers of all involved vehicle.
Soon After the Accident. Notify your own insurance agent of the accident. Your agent can give you information about repairing or replacing your vehicle and renting a car. Write detailed notes about the accident noting the exact words of any conversations you had with the other driver. If there was significant damage to your vehicle, photograph the damage before it is repaired or the vehicle is junked. If possible, photograph the other vehicle as well. If you were injured in the accident, follow up with a competent medical provider. Do not sign any document unless it is for the police or your own insurance agent. If the other driver's insurance representative contacts you, think twice before giving them a statement. You are usually under no obligation to do so. Contact a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law.
The aftermath of an accident can be difficult and confusing. You are bound to have questions about how your car will get fixed, whether you are entitled to a rental car and where to send your medical bills. I am happy to answer any questions you have -- without fee or obligation.
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