Oftentimes when a fender bender occurs, both parties agree just to ignore the accident and move on with their lives as if it never happened. While this might seem convenient at the time, it is not always the best decision.
Many people agree to forget the incident because both parties involved are entirely unharmed and the vehicles show little to no damage after colliding. Often, the drivers will make an agreement where one person will pay the other person money for repairing their car and they will keep insurance completely out of the occasion. If you don’t involve insurance, your rates won’t be affected. Sounds like a pretty good idea, right? Let’s look at all of the many reasons why you need to avoid this scenario at all costs.
No Rental Car Coverage
While it might seem like a good deal on the surface, keeping the situation from the insurance company will only hurt you in the end. If your car needs to be sent off for repairs, you will be the one responsible for getting a rental car in the meantime. If a health issue arises later on or there are any problems with the vehicle after the incident, you are the one responsible for covering all costs.
The Other Party May Be Lying
They might say they won’t report it, but what happens if they do and you are the one that looks irresponsible for not telling your insurance company? These are things to think about before going through with this deal.
You Will Be Breaking The Law
If you don’t report an incident that occurs and there is more than $1,000 worth of damage done, you will be at risk of breaking the law. Even if the other person agrees to brush the incident under the rug, you need to do the right thing and call the police right away just to protect yourself.
You Have To Fix Your Car Alone
When you get into a car accident, the insurance companies are always willing and ready to help you find a mechanic who will help repair the vehicle for you. In most cases, if you are up to date on your monthly payments, your repairs will be covered by the insurance company and you won’t have to pay much (if any) out of your own pocket.
If you’re in a minor accident, you should understand first and foremost that insurance companies are there to protect you. Even if you are the one at-fault, most insurance companies will still cover any car repair costs or medical costs later on. Calling a police officer to the scene and allowing them to draft a report gives you further proof of what happened in case you need to protect your own assets.
After reporting your accident, you may need help negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company. The Louisiana car accident attorneys at E. Orum Young Law Offices are experienced personal injury lawyers who can serve as your legal representation and help ensure that you recover fair compensation. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Our Trial Guarantee ensures that we will take your case to trial per your request.
