Three Things To Know About Moving Your Car After An Accident

When you're in a car accident, you have the option of leaving the vehicle at the scene of the accident or moving it to a safer location. There are several factors that should influence how you proceed. For example, if you're on a road that is dangerous, thus making it unsafe to stand outside your vehicle, relocating is a good idea. Conversely, if the vehicle is severely damaged and moving it may cause further traffic issues, you're better off leaving it where it sits. Here are some things that you should know about moving your car after you've been in an accident.

You Should Confer First With The Other Driver

It might be tempting to drive in search of a suitable location to park your vehicle as soon as you've been in an accident, but this isn't advisable. Doing so could suggest that you're trying to flee the scene after a hit and run, which your car accident attorney will have to work hard to disprove. You can avoid this predicament by stopping your vehicle as quickly after the accident as is safe so that you can confer with the other driver. Come to a mutual decision to relocate your vehicles to a safe spot.

Don't Go Too Far

Generally, you can find a safe spot to which you can move your vehicle after you've been in a collision. In an urban area, a side street or parking lot will generally suffice. On the highway, an exit or even a spot on the highway with a wider shoulder can work well. Don't make the mistake of driving too far in search of a perfect location. You could be leaking oil or another fluid that makes the road unsafe for other motorists, which could have you and your car accident attorney fighting a claim that you caused someone's accident.

Remember The Scene

Don't be in such a panic that you can't remember the exact scene of your accident. Your car accident attorney will be eager to visit the scene — or send an investigator out — to take photos of skid marks and other potential things that tell the story of the crash. If you have trouble remembering where exactly the accident took place, you could be missing a critical part of taking legal action afterward. Before you move your vehicle, note the exact surroundings — you may even want to take a photo yourself.


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