For most people that need a new automobile, purchasing a car is the most popular option. However, depending on your needs, leasing can also be a good choice. However, when your car is lease, there are some complications that you must consider, including what you should do when you’re involved in an accident.
In the aftermath of an accident involving a leased vehicle, you need to act quickly, as your lease often has specific requirements for reporting accidents. Not acting quickly enough may impact your ability for file a claim or even a personal injury suit. Follow these tips for reacting after a car accident in a leased vehicle to make sure you’re protecting your rights and following your lease requirements.
Safety Above All Else
Car accidents can be extremely dangerous, so your primary goal after a car accident in leased car should be making certain that you and the other driver are unharmed. Once you can be sure that you are no longer in danger, you should get out your phone and make a call to the police.
In addition to being required, calling the police after a major accident can be a crucial part of filing your insurance claim or injury lawsuit. When they reach the scene, the police should collect information about your accident for a report, including collecting statements from your witness. If your case ends up in court, you may be able to use this report as evidence.
Who Do I Report the Accident To?
As a requirement of leasing, you will need an insurance policy for your car, and almost every insurance company mandates that you report an accident as soon as possible after it has occurred. After you’ve gotten off the phone with the police, your next call should be to your insurer to inform them about the wreck.
After your insurer has been notified, they will likely send a claims adjuster to examine your vehicle. This examination may take place at the scene or at a later date. Your insurer may also instruct you to take your damaged vehicle to a local body or repair shop for an inspection.
If you fail to contact your insurer in a timely manner, you may be penalized when your lease has ended.
What About Lawsuits?
Assuming that the other driver in your accident was at fault for the wreck, you will also need to get in touch with their insurance company. When you contact the other driver’s insurer, you should let them know when and how the accident occurred, as well as the amount of damage suffered by your vehicle. With any luck, the insurer will process your claim and pay you for the damages.
If the other driver’s insurer decides you were at fault and decides to deny the claim, your next step will be filing a lawsuit. The best option is getting in touch with a qualified attorney, who will know how to negotiate with the insurer and fight for your claim.
Contact an Attorney
If you want to make sure you are acting correctly after a car accident in a leased vehicle, you should hire an attorney from Lowry & Associates. We offer free consultations and you’ll never owe us anything unless we win your case. You can reach us at 207-775-3819 or fill out our free case review form.
