Car accidents can be very stressful, and one may find it difficult to determine what actions to avoid in the moments following a crash, as anything said or done may affect a future claim. While there are dozens of actions you should avoid taking after a collision, here are five things you should never do:
Apologize
Regardless of how the crash occurred, never apologize or admit fault at the scene of an accident. Chances are, you have not had the time to properly assess the situation, and while not guaranteed, admitting fault can negatively impact potential insurance claims or legal proceedings. Leave it to your attorney to analyze the facts of the incident and advocate for what is in your best interest.
Not Report the Crash to the Police
No matter the extent of your injuries nor the property damage, always report a car crash to the police. Doing so will result in the creation of a police report, which will detail the incident and create a record of it having happened. Without this report, it will be much more difficult to prove the circumstances under which the crash occurred.
Leave Without Gathering Evidence
It is essential to gather as much evidence as possible at the scene of a car crash, especially if you suffered an injury or property damage. Photos of the involved vehicles, the accident scene, and visible injuries will make a world of difference in proving liability and damages. Taking videos at the scene will be equally, if not more, helpful. In addition, write down the names and contact information for any witnesses at the scene who may have seen or heard the crash occur or who may have observed the scene in the moments prior or subsequent to the collision.
Delay Medical Treatment
Even if you feel fine in the moments following a car crash or believe you are not injured, always see a doctor as soon as possible following the incident. Some injuries may not be readily apparent, and some can surface later if not identified and treated immediately. Seeking medical attention will also assist in the documentation of the car crash and any resulting injuries for insurance and legal purposes.
Speak to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company Without a Lawyer
The goal of an insurance adjuster is to do whatever possible to avoid paying you a dime. They will, at some point, contact you to get your side of the story and may even request you provide them with a recorded statement. Do not do it, as this will rarely be to your benefit. Instead, contact a personal injury attorney who can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. Personal injury lawyers are familiar with the tricks and traps placed upon injured persons and can guard you against being taken advantage of.
If you are injured in a car crash, the lawyers at Romano Law Group are ready and willing to advocate on your behalf.
Authored by Mikayla T. Taylor
The post Five Things NOT to do After a Car Crash appeared first on Romano Law Group.
