A car accident can leave you shaken, especially if you believe you are the one at fault. Knowing what to do afterward can make a difference for your safety, finances, and legal position.
Mississippi follows an at-fault insurance system, which means the driver who caused the crash can be held responsible for covering damages. Because of this, the steps you take immediately after the wreck can protect your health and rights. You do have some control over what happens after a car accident that is your fault.
Mistakes to Avoid After an At-Fault Accident
Drivers often hurt their cases by making preventable mistakes after a collision. Avoid the following:
- Leaving the scene before law enforcement arrives. This can be treated as a hit-and-run, even if the damage appears minor.
- Admitting fault at the scene or in conversations with insurers. Liability is complex; a full investigation should determine who is liable.
- Accepting a quick settlement offer. You may get strong-armed into a bad deal without an attorney reviewing the offer.
Taking the right steps early reduces the chance of compounding your legal and financial problems.
Immediate Steps to Take: At-Fault Car Accident
The moments after an accident are often confusing, but prioritizing a few concrete steps is essential. Here are the immediate steps to take after an at-fault car accident (or any car accident):
- Check yourself and others for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone needs medical attention;
- Move vehicles out of traffic if possible and safe to do so;
- Contact law enforcement to create an official accident report; this may become important evidence in any insurance claim or lawsuit;
- Exchange information with the other driver, including names, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details;
- Collect evidence by taking photos of the vehicles, the road, and any visible injuries; and
- Speak with witnesses and get their contact information.
It is important to remain calm and cooperative with officers and other drivers. Avoid admitting fault at the scene. Even if you believe you caused the accident, the investigation may reveal that responsibility is shared or that other factors contributed to the crash.
Understanding Your Legal and Insurance Obligations
Mississippi requires that accidents resulting in injury, death, or more than $500 in property damage be reported to the police. Even if the wreck seems minor, contacting law enforcement protects you from future disputes. You are also obligated to report the accident to your insurance company. Failing to do so can lead to policy cancellation or denial of coverage.
When you report the accident to your insurance company, provide accurate details, but avoid speculating about fault or causes. The adjuster will investigate the circumstances. Your words may be used later to determine liability, so stick to the facts.
Consequences of an At-Fault Accident
Being responsible for an accident in Mississippi carries several possible outcomes. The consequences of an at-fault accident can include:
- Financial liability. You may be held responsible for vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages the injured party suffers.
- Insurance impact. Your insurance premiums may rise significantly after an at-fault accident. In serious cases, your insurer could even decline to renew your policy.
- Legal exposure. If the injured party’s damages exceed your insurance policy limits, they may pursue a lawsuit directly against you, putting your personal assets at risk.
- Points on your driving record. Mississippi tracks moving violations, and an accident you caused may add points that lead to license suspension if you accumulate too many.
Because the consequences can be wide-ranging, it is important not to ignore deadlines, communications, or legal notices. Acting quickly gives you a better chance at managing the damage.
Why You May Need a Mississippi At-Fault Accident Lawyer
Mississippi’s at-fault system means insurance companies are motivated to minimize their payouts. They may attempt to shift blame or reduce the compensation owed to the injured party, which in turn can increase your personal liability. A Mississippi at-fault accident lawyer can help protect your rights by ensuring that the investigation is fair, that evidence is preserved, and that negotiations with insurers do not leave you exposed.
An experienced attorney can also advise you if multiple drivers share responsibility. Mississippi applies pure comparative negligence, which means liability is divided according to each party’s percentage of fault. Even if you are primarily at fault, this rule can still affect the outcome of claims and lawsuits.
Contact Harris Law Firm Now
Since 1981, Harris Law Firm has represented clients across Mississippi and Arkansas with determination and honesty. Our firm has secured numerous million-dollar and multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, giving us a track record of guiding clients through complex accident cases.
What happens after a car accident that is your fault can impact the rest of your life. If you were involved in a collision with a dispute over fault or face claims beyond your insurance coverage, we can provide the thorough representation you need. Contact us today for a consultation.
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