Even in a minor fender bender, stopping after a car accident is not only the right thing to do—it is legally required in most states. Many drivers assume that if there are no visible injuries or major damage, they can just drive away, but failing to stop can have serious legal and financial consequences. Whether the accident seems minor or not, taking the proper steps ensures that everyone involved is protected and that potential claims with a skilled West Des Moines IA car accident lawyer are handled correctly. The lawyers at Des Moines Injury Law understand how to navigate a claim and can explain the best possible way to move forward. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only collect payment if we win your case.
Leaving The Scene Can Lead To Legal Consequences
Failing to stop after an accident, even a small one, can be classified as a hit-and-run. Depending on the state and circumstances, this can result in criminal charges, fines, points on a driver’s license, or even jail time. Even if no one was injured, most states require drivers to stop, exchange information, and report the accident if necessary.
In cases where another driver or property was involved, leaving without stopping makes it difficult to prove fault. If the other party reports the accident and provides a license plate number, law enforcement may track down the driver who left and charge them with a hit-and-run, even if the damage was minimal.
Minor Damage Can Lead To Hidden Costs
At first glance, a small dent or scratch may not seem like a big deal, but damage from a minor accident can be more severe than it appears. A seemingly harmless bump to a bumper or fender can lead to misalignment, internal mechanical damage, or costly repairs that aren’t immediately noticeable.
Additionally, some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Stopping after an accident allows both drivers to exchange information in case hidden injuries or vehicle issues become apparent later. If a minor accident happens, or something more major like a semi truck accident, you should ensure you are covered.
Insurance Requirements And Claim Protection
Even if an accident is small, stopping and documenting the incident protects against future claims. Insurance companies typically require an accident report or evidence of a collision when processing claims. If one driver leaves the scene, the other party may file a claim, leading to complications when trying to prove what actually happened.
If a driver leaves without reporting an accident, they may also lose the ability to seek compensation for their own damages. Without proper documentation, proving that the accident even occurred may be difficult.
Taking The Right Steps After A Minor Accident
Stopping after any accident is important, but knowing what to do at the scene helps ensure everything is properly handled. After pulling over to a safe location, it’s best to:
- Check for injuries and call for medical assistance if needed
- Exchange names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers with the other driver
- Take photos of the vehicles, damage, road conditions, and any relevant surroundings
- Contact law enforcement if required by state laws or if there is a dispute over fault
Even if the other driver insists that the accident is too small to report, it’s always a good idea to document what happened. If they later decide to file a claim, having evidence can prevent unnecessary legal or insurance complications. Knowing what to do after a car accident can be crucial in gaining proper compensation.
How A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Stopping after a minor accident is about more than just following the law—it’s about protecting legal rights and preventing unnecessary issues down the road. If complications arise, such as the other driver making false claims or insurance companies refusing to cover damages, speaking with a car accident lawyer can help.
A legal professional can review the accident, gather evidence, and ensure that insurance companies handle the claim fairly. They can also defend against false accusations or unexpected legal issues stemming from the incident.
Even in small accidents, stopping and following the proper procedures can save a great deal of trouble. Des Moines Injury Law can assist if you reach out soon to set up a free consultation. Taking the right steps ensures that all parties are protected, legal responsibilities are met, and any necessary claims can be handled without unnecessary disputes.
