A car accident can happen anywhere, including on private property. After a car accident happens on private property, it can be tough to know how to proceed after that type of crash. Are the procedures the same? Typically, you should always check for injuries and call 911 after any type of crash. This includes one that happens on private property. However, you should know that there are a few distinctions between public and private roads.
A car accident that happens on private property could range from a minor fender bender to a serious collision. The driver may not be the only party at fault for the incident. In some cases, the property owner could be at fault as well. How could a property owner be held liable? They could be liable if the accident happened because of hard-to-read signage or a poorly maintained premises. There are many reasons why a property owner could be fully or partially held at fault for a car accident.
Another difference between a private and public property car accident is that the police may come to the scene but they are not required to write an official police report. You can still ask for them to document the accident with an incident report. Their write-up can help show when the crash happened, who was involved, and other pertinent details.
How Is Fault Proven in This Type of Accident?
You might suspect that the party who hit your car on private property was distracted or otherwise negligent. However, regardless of your suspicions, you need to prove that they caused the accident. Without evidence, you might be on the hook to pay for your property damage, medical bills, and other expenses. Even if you carry the state-required minimum amount of personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, your insurance carrier may balk at paying you what you think you deserve. For this reason, many people seek out assistance from a car accident lawyer.
To help your case, you should gather evidence that proves that the other party negligently caused your accident. Your proof could come in the form of photographs, videos, and even eyewitness accounts. You might be able to obtain security camera footage as well. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case.
Should You Wait to Get Medical Treatment?
It can be tempting to put off going to an urgent care facility or emergency room, especially if you can still get around after the car accident. However, the problem with waiting is that the longer you put off getting diagnosed and treated, the more likely that an insurance company will say that your injuries were not related to the accident.
Even though you will have to pay out of pocket for some or all of your medical costs, you should get a check-up after any type of accident. A thorough examination can rule out conditions that may seem small at first but can lead to bigger problems, such as a traumatic brain injury. Always put your health first.
You may assume that your insurance company will be able to win a fight against another insurance company or that you can talk a property owner’s insurance company into covering your bills. However, dealing with insurance providers, including your own, after any type of accident can be overwhelming and confusing.
Insurance companies want to pay as little as they can. They can take a long time to accept liability. They may offer you a sum that does not adequately meet your needs. However, assistance from a car accident lawyer can be beneficial, particularly if you are trying to heal from a catastrophic injury. It is much easier to let a legal professional handle the process on your behalf.
How Can You Avoid a Car Accident on Private Property?
Not all car accidents are avoidable, but you should still take steps to avoid one from happening. Some important driving tips include:
- Drive at a speed appropriate for your location, time of day, number of other vehicles around you, and weather conditions.
- Never allow yourself to be distracted while driving.
- Never drive while intoxicated or under the influence of any legal or illegal drug.
- Pay careful attention when driving in an unknown area.
- Steer clear of any driver who seems to be driving erratically.
Taking precautionary measures can help you prevent a car accident.
Wilmington Car Accident Lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow Will Help You Figure Out Your Next Best Steps After a Collision on Private Property
Were you recently injured in a car accident that happened on private property? Our Wilmington car accident lawyers at Rhoades & Morrow can help you after any type of collision. Call us (302) 427-9500 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Wilmington, Bear, and Milford, Delaware, we serve clients throughout Middletown, Dover, Milford, Lewes, Rehoboth, Elsmere, and Seaford.
