Do You call the police for a fender bender?

Do You Call the Police for a Fender Bender?

A fender bender, also known as a minor car accident, is a common occurrence on the roads. Whether you’re the driver at fault or not, it’s essential to know whether you should call the police or not. In this article, we’ll delve into the factors that determine whether you should report a fender bender to the authorities.

When to Call the Police

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s cover the general guidelines. You should always call the police if:

• Someone is injured: If anyone involved in the accident is injured, even if it’s just a minor scratch, you should call the police immediately. Medical attention is crucial in these situations.
• There’s significant damage: If the damage to both vehicles is extensive, exceeding $1,000-$2,000, or if the accident involves a commercial vehicle, you should call the police.
• There’s a hit-and-run: If someone flees the scene without exchanging information or leaving their contact details, you should call the police.
• There’s a dispute: If there’s a disagreement about who was at fault or if one party is refusing to provide insurance information, you should call the police.

When Not to Call the Police

On the other hand, you might not need to call the police in the following situations:

• Minor damage: If the damage is minor and only involves a scratch or a small dent, you can exchange information and report the incident to your insurance company.
• No injuries: If no one is injured, and the damage is minimal, you can handle the situation yourself.
• Mutual agreement: If both parties agree on who was at fault and can exchange information, you can skip calling the police.

Exchanging Information

Even if you don’t need to call the police, it’s crucial to exchange information with the other party involved in the accident. This includes:

• Name and contact information: Make sure to get the other driver’s name, phone number, and email address.
• Insurance information: Get the other driver’s insurance company name, policy number, and claim number.
• License plate number: Take a note of the other driver’s license plate number.
• Vehicle information: Get the make, model, and year of the other vehicle.

Documenting the Incident

To protect yourself and your vehicle, it’s essential to document the incident. Take photos of:

• The damage: Take clear photos of the damage to both vehicles.
• The scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including any skid marks or debris.
• The other vehicle: Take photos of the other vehicle, including its make, model, and license plate number.

What Happens After You Call the Police

If you do decide to call the police, here’s what you can expect:

• Officer’s report: The officer will create a report detailing the incident, including the damage, injuries, and any citations issued.
• Insurance involvement: Your insurance company may be notified, and you may need to file a claim.
• Fines and penalties: If you’re found at fault, you may receive fines or penalties, which can be added to your insurance premiums.

Conclusion

Whether you should call the police for a fender bender depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. If someone is injured, there’s significant damage, or there’s a hit-and-run, you should call the police. On the other hand, if the damage is minor and there are no injuries, you can handle the situation yourself. Remember to always exchange information and document the incident, regardless of whether you call the police or not.

Table: When to Call the Police

Summary

In summary, calling the police for a fender bender depends on the severity of the accident and the parties involved. If you’re unsure whether to call the police, err on the side of caution and contact the authorities. Remember to exchange information, document the incident, and prioritize your safety and well-being.