Casey is a founding partner at River Run Law Group. Casey has tried numerous cases across the Commonwealth in both General District Court and Circuit Court. He has earned millions of dollars for his clients through trials, mediations, and settlements.
Getting into a car accident is a stressful experience, especially when someone else causes the crash. You may have all sorts of questions, such as:
- Someone hit my car, whose insurance do I call?
- Should I contact my own insurance company?
- Should I contact the at-fault driver’s insurer?
Navigating these decisions can be confusing, but knowing what to do can make a big difference in the process.
At River Run Law, we understand how stressful this situation is. Our experienced team can guide you through every step. If you’ve been in an accident, call or contact us online for trusted advice and results-focused service.
Steps to Take After Someone Hits Your Car
Knowing what to do after an accident can save time and reduce stress. Follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Ensure safety. Move to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 if medical attention is needed.
- Gather information. Collect the at-fault driver’s name, contact details, insurance policy number, and vehicle information.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the damage, license plates, and accident location. These can be useful for claims.
- File a police report. A report creates an official record of the incident, which insurance companies often require for claims.
- Contact insurance. Notify your insurance company and provide the details of the accident. They will guide you through the claims process.
- Seek legal advice. If the accident involves significant damage, injuries, or disputes, consult a Richmond car accident lawyer for help.
Taking these steps after an accident can make all the difference in protecting your rights and ensuring a smoother claims process.
Staying organized and proactive better equips you to handle any challenges that arise. If you’re unsure about any part of the process or need additional support, contacting a trusted professional, like the attorneys at River Run Law, can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Whose Insurance Do I Call After an Accident?
In Virginia, the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers damages in a car accident. However, that doesn’t mean you should avoid calling your own insurance company. Reporting the incident to your insurer can protect you if unexpected complications arise. Here’s how it works:
- Contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Their liability coverage pays for your car repairs, medical bills, and other expenses.
- Notify your own insurer. Even though you may not file a claim with your policy, most insurers require you to report accidents promptly.
Failing to report the accident could lead to complications if you need to use your insurance later, such as for uninsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection, or medical payments coverage under your own policy.
Do I Need to Call My Insurance If Someone Hit Me?
Yes. You should call your insurance company, even if someone else caused the accident. While you’ll file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer, notifying your insurance serves several purposes, including:
- Documentation. Your insurer records the details of the accident, which can be helpful if disputes arise.
- Protection. If the other driver’s insurance denies responsibility or is slow to pay, your policy may cover your expenses temporarily.
- Compliance. Most insurance companies require accident reporting under their policies.
Virginia follows an at-fault system, meaning the driver responsible for the accident pays damages through their insurance. However, your insurance may step in through uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver’s coverage is insufficient or unavailable.
What If the At-Fault Driver Is Uninsured?
Virginia previously allowed drivers to opt out of purchasing car insurance by paying an uninsured motorist fee, which did not protect you in an accident. As of January 1, 2025, drivers must carry the minimum coverage under Virginia law.
However, minimum coverage may still leave you underinsured, meaning it might not fully cover all damages and expenses after an accident. If the at-fault driver is uninsured, you may need to rely on your uninsured motorist coverage by:
- Checking your policy. All Virginia auto insurance policies include uninsured motorist protection.
- Filing a claim with your insurer. This coverage helps pay for damages and medical bills caused by uninsured drivers.
Dealing with an uninsured driver can be frustrating, but having uninsured motorist coverage ensures you’re not left shouldering the costs alone. Reviewing your policy to understand your coverage or calling your insurance agent for an explanation can give you peace of mind in these challenging situations.
Richmond Car Accident Lawyer: Why Legal Help Matters
Accidents can quickly turn into complex disputes. A Richmond car accident lawyer helps ensure you’re treated fairly by insurance companies. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize what they pay, and without legal guidance, you might accept less compensation than you deserve.
At River Run Law, we advocate for accident victims in Virginia. We can help by:
- Negotiating. We deal with insurance companies on your behalf to secure fair compensation. Our attorneys can help ensure you don’t fall victim to lowball settlement offers.
- Investigating. Our team gathers evidence, such as police reports and witness statements, to build a strong case. We also consult experts if needed to strengthen your claim.
- Counseling. We walk you through every step, from filing claims to pursuing legal action if necessary. You’ll have clear answers and support at every stage of the process.
If you’re unsure where to start after an accident, contacting a lawyer can protect your rights from day one.
Call (804) 889-0500 or complete the case evaluation form below
Get Trusted Guidance from River Run Law
Are you still wondering, Someone hit my car, whose insurance do I call? When faced with this or other complex legal questions after an accident, you deserve experienced advocates by your side.
At River Run Law, we understand the challenges a serious injury can bring. Our Richmond-based injury and workers’ compensation attorneys are passionate about pursuing justice and fair compensation for those wrongfully injured.
Whether you’re recovering from a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence or facing mounting repair and medical bills, our team is here to protect your rights. We understand the stress of dealing with insurance companies, unpaid expenses, and uncertainty about what comes next.
We will fight to hold the responsible parties accountable, ensuring you receive the compensation you need. Let us take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing and moving forward.
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