The number of people dying in a car accident is 30% higher than people who die from gun shooting. In 2023, car crashes claimed around 40,990 lives in the U.S., according to the NHTSA. By contrast, CDC data shows that firearm-related deaths were approximately 31,000 for the same year. That means nearly 112 people die every day on the road. From drunk driving and speeding to distracted scrolling on the wheel, every crash is a chain reaction of neglect.

In total, the U.S. saw over 6.1 million car accidents in 2023. Out of these, more than 2.5 million people were injured, ranging from minor sprains to life-changing trauma. That’s roughly 1 in every 130 Americans hurt in a car crash last year. And it’s not just about accidents. The behavior behind the wheel is a red flag. Speeding caused 29% of all traffic deaths, while drunk driving was responsible for 31%, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Even casual texting or taking a call contributed to 8–10% of crashes, making distracted driving the modern-day version of playing with fire.

What To Do If You Crash Into Someone

First things first — don’t panic, don’t run. Crashing into someone, whether a car, a pedestrian, or a cyclist, can shake you. But how you act next can make or break your case.

1. Stop the Car and Stay at the Scene

Leaving the scene is a criminal offense in most states. Even if the damage looks small, hit-and-run laws can land you in jail for years.

2. Check for Injuries

If someone is hurt — even slightly — call 911. Don’t try to move the injured unless it’s unsafe to keep them there. Your job is to get help, not play doctor.

3. Call the Police

A police report is your legal proof. No report, no solid defense. Say only the facts. Avoid phrases like “I didn’t see them” or “It was my fault.” Let the report speak for itself.

4. Exchange Information

Get names, contact numbers, driver’s license, license plate, and insurance details from all parties. Be polite, but don’t admit guilt. Not even by accident.

5. Document Everything

Take photos of the scene, the damage, injuries, road signs, and weather. If there are witnesses, get their names. This evidence might save you thousands later.

6. Inform Your Insurance Company

Tell them what happened, quickly and truthfully. Most policies require you to report within 24 to 48 hours. Delays = denials.

7. Call a Car Accident Lawyer

Even if it was your fault, a lawyer helps protect your rights. They deal with claims, court risks, and make sure you’re not paying more than you should.

Scenario 1: When the Accident Was Your Fault

You rear-end someone at a red light. You were checking your phone. Classic distracted driving.

What Happens:

• Your insurance pays for the other driver’s medical bills and car damage — up to your policy limit.
• If the other person is seriously injured, they can sue you personally if the damages go beyond your coverage.
• In states like California or Texas, your rates go up by 30–50%, and you might get points on your license.
• If you were speeding or drunk, you’re looking at criminal charges, possible jail time, and a suspended license.

What to Do:

• Do not admit fault on the scene. Stick to the facts.
• Call a car accident lawyer immediately — they’ll talk to the insurance company, negotiate the best outcome, and reduce your liability.
• If charged criminally (e.g., DUI), you’ll need a defense attorney, not just an insurance claim lawyer.

Scenario 2: When the Accident Was Not Your Fault

You’re driving straight through a green light. Another driver runs a red and T-bones you.

What Happens:

• In at-fault states, their insurance pays for your damages and injuries.
• You still file a claim with your own insurance under collision or PIP if needed — depending on the state.
• If they’re uninsured or underinsured, your own coverage steps in (if you added uninsured motorist protection).
• You can also sue the at-fault driver for pain and suffering, lost income, or long-term disability.

What to Do:

• Still call the police and collect every bit of evidence. Fault may be obvious to you, but not to insurers or courts.
• Contact a car accident lawyer to push for a full payout. Insurers often lowball — even when it’s clearly their driver’s fault.
• Stay off social media. Your posts can be used to discredit your claim.

When Someone Dies and It’s Your Fault

If you caused a fatal accident, things get serious fast.

Legal Consequences:

• Criminal charges will almost always follow — from vehicular manslaughter to negligent homicide, depending on your state.
• You could face prison time, fines, and license suspension. For example, in California, vehicular manslaughter can mean 1 to 7 years in jail.
• If DUI or reckless driving was involved, penalties increase — longer jail, heavier fines, and possibly probation.

Civil Consequences:

• The victim’s family can file a wrongful death lawsuit against you. This can cost you millions if found liable.
• You may have to pay for funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional damages.
• Your insurance may cover some costs, but if it’s not enough, your personal assets can be at risk.

Trial Process:

• Police and prosecutors will investigate thoroughly.
• You’ll likely be arrested and charged.
• There will be criminal trials to decide guilt and sentencing.
• Families usually hire lawyers for civil court, which runs separately.
• Both trials can be long and stressful, and outcomes vary depending on evidence and defense.

When Someone Dies and It’s NOT Your Fault

Even if you’re innocent, the loss is massive, and legal steps follow.

Legal Consequences:

• Criminal charges typically target the at-fault driver, not you.
• You may still be involved in investigations or as a witness.

Civil Consequences:

• You or your family can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver or their insurance.
• Compensation covers medical bills, funeral costs, lost future income, and pain and suffering.
• Some states have statutes of limitations (usually 2 years) — so act fast.

Trial Process:

• Police will gather evidence and assign fault.
• At-fault party may face criminal charges.
• You’ll work with your lawyer to file civil claims.
• Most wrongful death cases settle outside court, but some go to trial.

Lawyers for Fatal Car Accidents: What You Need to Know

Who Are They?

These lawyers specialize in car accident cases, especially serious ones involving injuries or deaths. They know the tricks insurance companies use, understand state laws, and have experience fighting both criminal and civil cases.

Where to Find Them?

• Local law firms that focus on personal injury or wrongful death cases.
• Online lawyer directories like Avvo, FindLaw, or Justia.
• Referrals from friends, family, or other lawyers.
• Legal aid clinics or bar associations sometimes offer free consultations.
• Many offer free initial consultations to see if your case is worth pursuing.

How Much Do They Cost?

• Most work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they get paid only if you win or settle.
• Contingency fees usually range between 25% to 40% of the settlement amount.
• You won’t pay upfront fees, but if you lose, you typically owe nothing.
• Some lawyers might charge extra for court costs or investigations, but these are often deducted from your settlement.

Losing a car accident case, especially one involving injury or death, can feel like a punch to the gut. Here’s what actually happens if you lose:

1. No Compensation: If you’re the plaintiff (the one suing), losing means you don’t get the money you hoped for. That can leave medical bills, lost wages, and other costs unpaid.
2. Legal Costs: Usually, in personal injury cases, each side pays their own lawyer. But sometimes, the court might order the losing side to cover some legal fees or court costs. This depends on the state and case specifics.
3. Criminal Side: If there’s a criminal trial (like for reckless driving or manslaughter), losing means you might face fines, license suspension, jail time, or probation.
4. Appeals: You might have the option to appeal the decision if there’s a legal error or new evidence. Appeals can be long and costly, with no guarantee of winning.
5. Insurance Impact: Even if you lose the case, your insurance premiums may rise, and your insurance company might pay less or refuse certain claims depending on the outcome.

This article is brought to you by CarWyapar