Lawyer or attorneys practice in a variety of fields, including family law, commercial law, personal injury, criminal defense, and others.
Common Mistakes People Make After a Car Accident
Being in a car accident is never easy. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and sometimes downright confusing. In those moments after the crash, it’s easy to make mistakes that can make things worse down the line.
We’re here to highlight the most common missteps people make after a car accident and give you simple tips on how to avoid them.
1. Leaving the Scene Too Soon
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is leaving the scene of an accident, no matter how small it seems. If you hit someone’s car, or if another driver crashes into you, it’s crucial to stay put until the authorities arrive.
Fleeing could lead to serious legal trouble. Plus, you’ll need to exchange information, like your driver’s license and insurance details, with the other driver.
It’s also important to take photos of the scene before moving anything, if possible. This helps document what happened and can be useful later if there’s any dispute over the accident.
2. Not Calling the Police
Even if you think it’s a minor fender-bender, always call the police. Having an official police report is key if things get messy later. For example, if the other driver suddenly changes their story or their insurance company tries to play hardball, the report can back you up. Don’t skip this step—it’s not only helpful but sometimes required by law.
3. Ignoring Health Issues
You might feel fine after the crash, especially if you don’t have any obvious cuts or bruises. But injuries like whiplash, concussions, or soft tissue damage don’t always show up right away.
Even if you feel okay, it’s wise to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Plus, getting a medical evaluation will help connect your injuries to the accident, which can be essential if you need to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit later.
4. Downplaying Your Injuries
When the police or the other driver asks how you’re feeling, it’s tempting to say, “I’m fine.” But even if you don’t feel much pain at the moment, be honest about any discomfort.
Some injuries, like back pain or headaches, can get worse after the adrenaline from the crash wears off. Downplaying things now can hurt you later when it comes to proving your injuries and getting compensation.
5. Not Gathering Enough Evidence
It’s easy to get caught up in the shock of the accident, but collecting evidence is one of the most important things you can do. If you’re able, take photos of your car, the other car, and any visible damage.
Get the other driver’s name, phone number, and insurance info. If there were any witnesses around, ask for their contact details too. The more evidence you have, the better your chances are of proving what happened and who’s at fault.
6. Talking Too Much to the Insurance Adjuster
After a car accident, the insurance company will want to talk to you, and you may feel the urge to explain everything. But remember, insurance adjusters are not on your side—they’re looking to settle for as little as possible.
Avoid giving too much detail right away, and definitely don’t admit any fault. It’s always a good idea to speak with a lawyer before providing a recorded statement, so you don’t accidentally say something that could hurt your claim.
7. Waiting Too Long to Hire a Lawyer
The sooner you get legal help, the better. Many people wait too long to call a lawyer, thinking it’s too early or they can handle things on their own.
But hiring an attorney early ensures they can start gathering evidence, talking to witnesses, and handling the insurance companies for you. If you wait too long, it can hurt your case, and you might miss important deadlines.
8. Assuming You Don’t Need to File a Claim
Some people think that because the accident seemed minor or they weren’t seriously hurt, it’s not worth filing a claim. That’s a huge mistake. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s still worth looking into your options.
Injuries can show up later, and you might find yourself dealing with expensive medical bills. Don’t assume it’s not worth pursuing a claim—talk to a lawyer and see what your options are.
How to Choose the Right Car Accident Lawyer Near You
Conclusion
We know that being in a car accident is scary and stressful. But by avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your health and your rights.
From staying at the scene and calling the police to seeking medical care and getting legal help, each of these steps can make a big difference in how your case plays out. If you’re unsure about what to do after an accident, it’s always best to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer to guide you through the process.
