What To Do After Single-Vehicle Accident
Most auto accidents generally involve two or more vehicles. However, single-vehicle accidents still occur in Maryland and can be just as frightening and lead to severe injuries and property damage. Whether your single-vehicle accident happened after skidding off the road, hitting a stationary object, or losing control of your vehicle, understanding the steps to take is essential to protect your safety and rights. In this guide, we discuss the essential steps to follow if you’re involved in a single-vehicle accident.
What Are Single-Vehicle Accidents?
A single-vehicle accident occurs when only one car is involved, often involving hitting a stationary object or veering off the road. Like other accidents, single-vehicle accidents can result in serious consequences for those involved. While the main victims are usually the vehicle occupants, sometimes bystanders may also be affected. Common instances where a single-vehicle accident may occur include:
- Crashing into a tree
- Hitting a guardrail
- Swerving to avoid hitting another vehicle
- Striking utility poles
Common Causes of Single Vehicle Accidents
Several factors can contribute to single-vehicle accidents. One common cause is a “phantom driver,” an unidentified motorist whose actions lead to a single-vehicle accident without hitting the other vehicle. For example, if a driver abruptly changes lanes and occupies your lane, you may be forced to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid a collision, making you lose control of your vehicle and crash into a guardrail.
In other cases, unsecured or falling cargo from trucks can strike a moving car, obstruct the driver’s vision, or force the driver to engage in evasive maneuvers that result in a crash. Similarly, road defects like potholes or poor road design can cause single-vehicle collisions. Finally, vehicle malfunctions, such as brake failures or sudden tire blowouts, can cause drivers to lose control, resulting in these accidents.
What To Do After a Single-Vehicle Accident
The actions you take after a single-vehicle accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. First, ensure that you remain calm, however terrified you are. Then, check if you are seriously injured, and if so, call 911 for assistance. The police will accompany the emergency responders to the crash site, ensuring that an official report on the accident is created. This report will serve as key evidence for insurance claims and any legal issues that may arise. Gather as much information as possible from the crash site. This includes capturing the damage to your vehicle and any external factors, such as road conditions, that could have contributed to the accident. If you have a dash cam, retrieve the footage and send it to yourself. The information you gather can be vital when establishing liability. Next, seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel okay. Some injuries may worsen over time if not addressed, and a medical evaluation can support any future claims you might need to make.
Finally, inform your insurance company promptly to initiate the claims process without delay. While doing so, let an experienced car accident attorney guide you and help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims. They can advise you on what to say and what not to say to the insurance company, help file the claim accurately, and represent you to ensure you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries from the accident.
Contact a Towson Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been in a single-vehicle accident in Towson or Baltimore County, contact our experienced Towson car accident lawyer at Hardball Law today to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
