Moving Your Car Following an Accident

Car Accidents

There’s that question that seems to arise anytime there’s a car accident. Should you move your car or should you leave it where it’s at? The answer isn’t as black and white as one might think, so learning some factors that play into the decision could be your best move. Consider the following.

Safety

If your car accident took place on a major highway or another road that sees a lot of traffic, it’s a matter of safety when considering whether to move your car. Your accident could cause another accident, whether it’s because an inattentive driver approached or there were people rubbernecking. If your car is in the condition it can be moved if your injuries are not serious and if it’s safe for you to move the car to the side of the road, do so as quickly as possible.

It’s possible moving your car will put you in the direct line of danger. If that is the case, it’s best for you to stay on the side of the road, keeping watch over your car until the authorities arrive. For example, if you were in an accident on a major highway and your car stopped working, it would cause you to have to push the vehicle. If there is no shoulder on the left side of the road where your accident occurred, it would put you in danger to try to push the car across three lanes of busy traffic to the shoulder. Always consider the safety of everyone involved.

Fault

As long as it’s safe to leave your car where the accident occurred, it might benefit you to do so when fault needs to be determined. The responding officer can get a clearer picture of what took place if your cars are still in the same position as when the accident took place. You will also have time to take pictures of the scene if you leave your car in place so your lawyer has proof of liability if it comes to that.

Injuries

If someone is trapped inside the car, it could deepen an injury for you to try to move the vehicle to the side of the road. Even if someone is not trapped, but he or she feels as if moving would cause a more serious injury, allow that person to stay put, and just keep the car where it’s at.

Contacting an Attorney for Guidance

Car accidents can prove to be tricky when you don’t know what to do. While safety should be at the top of your list when considering whether to move your car, you should also review fault and injuries. Contact a car accident attorney, like an MVA accident lawyer in Tampa, FL from Jeff Murphy Law. for further guidance.