Question from a reader:
If I accidentally hit someone without any family or guarantor while driving a car or motorcycle, how will compensation work? I’m worried about how to respond.

Compensation and Response When Hitting Someone Without Family or Guarantor

Introduction

It’s a sudden question, but what happens if you accidentally hit someone without any family or guarantor while driving a
car or motorcycle? This is one of the anxieties that many drivers carry in their minds. If you become the perpetrator, how will it be handled legally, what will happen to compensation, and what should you do? Let’s consider these points.

Basic Flow When an Accident Occurs

First of all, if you have an accident while driving a car or motorcycle, there are several things you should do immediately. It is essential to respond calmly, but in reality, the moment of the accident is filled with tension that makes your heart race. I once had an experience where I had to swerve to avoid a pedestrian who suddenly dashed out while I was driving, narrowly avoiding a collision. At that moment, I realized that “you must always pay attention while driving.” When an accident occurs, the first priority is to assist the injured. You should immediately call 119 and request an ambulance. Next, you need to contact the police as well. Without this, the subsequent procedures can become very troublesome. Collecting notes and evidence at the accident scene is also important. If there are witnesses, it’s a good idea to take down their contact information.

Compensation Mechanism for Unknown Individuals

Now, let’s get to the main topic. What happens to compensation if you hit someone without any family or guarantor? Essentially, you, as the perpetrator, will bear the liability for damages. In other words, even if the other party is unidentified, your automobile insurance will apply. Many automobile insurance policies include “liability coverage for bodily injury,” which covers the other party’s medical expenses and damages. Even if the other party is unemployed or unidentified, insurance will typically apply, so you can usually feel secure. However, it is important to pay attention to the details and limits of your insurance. In cases where you are not enrolled or depending on the conditions of your insurance, you may incur out-of-pocket expenses, so it is crucial to check in advance.

Procedures After an Accident

The procedures after an accident can be complex. First, wait for the ambulance and police to arrive and report the situation of the accident. The police will conduct an on-site investigation and issue an accident certificate. This certificate is important for future insurance claims, so be sure to keep it safe. After that, you need to contact your insurance company and report the details of the accident. The insurance company will determine the compensation amount for the victim based on the circumstances of the accident. It is essential to gather appropriate evidence here. Photos of the accident scene and witness testimonies will be key factors in determining the compensation amount.

Emotional Support

Experiencing an accident is inherently a very stressful experience, and the mental damage can be significant. I myself sometimes find my mind going blank and not knowing what to do when something unexpected happens while driving. In such times, consulting with trusted friends or family can be a source of emotional support. Additionally, some automobile insurance policies may include “legal consultation coverage.” If you need legal advice after an accident, this coverage can be very helpful. Especially in cases where you hit an unidentified person, asserting your position can be difficult, so seeking the opinion of a legal expert can be very effective.

Things to Know for Self-Defense

While it is difficult to completely avoid the risk of accidents, taking certain measures can alleviate anxiety in case of emergencies. First, always pay attention to your surroundings while driving. Special care is needed for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, it is essential to have appropriate insurance coverage. In my case, when I obtained my driver’s license, I strongly felt the importance of automobile insurance. It is better to have solid insurance coverage than to regret opting for a cheaper policy. Especially for young drivers, who are at a higher risk of accidents, it is important to receive various advice from experienced individuals.

Conclusion

Compensation when hitting someone without family or guarantor is complex, but essentially, it will be covered by your insurance. However, prior preparation and response after the accident are crucial, and it is necessary to maintain composure. The impact of an accident is significant not only physically but also mentally, so consider seeking professional help if needed. Driving is free and enjoyable, but it also comes with risks. Therefore, I believe it is important to raise awareness about daily driving and prepare adequately to protect yourself and those around you. Let’s strive to prevent accidents and drive in a way that ensures peace of mind in case of emergencies.