What NOT to do if you are involved in a car accident

A car accident is a collision between two or more vehicles on the road. They can range from minor fender benders to severe, life-threatening crashes. No matter the severity, car accidents can be a traumatic and stressful experience for those involved.

It is important to know what to do in the event of a car accident to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Knowing the correct steps to take can also help minimize an accident’s financial and legal consequences. But it’s also important to know what NOT to do.

This blog will discuss common mistakes to avoid after a car accident and what steps you should take to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.

If you want to learn more about what to do if you are involved in a car accident, click here to read our blog on that topic.

Do NOT Leave the Scene of the Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident, also known as a hit-and-run, is a serious criminal offense. A hit-and-run penalty can include fines, imprisonment, and even a criminal record. Even if you were not at fault for the accident, leaving the scene can make the situation worse and can be held against you in court.

Leaving the scene of an accident is not only illegal, but it can also make a difficult situation even worse. It is always best to stay at the scene, exchange information, and seek medical attention to ensure that you are protected legally and medically.

Do NOT Lie About the Details of Your Case

Lying about the details of your case, such as the cause of the accident or the extent of your injuries, can have serious consequences. It can lead to your insurance claim being denied or a legal case being dismissed. In addition, you could face serious legal penalties, including fines and even imprisonment, if caught lying.

Admitting fault for an accident before all the facts are known can also be detrimental to your case. Even if you think you may be at fault, gathering all the evidence and letting the relevant authorities determine the fault is important.

To protect yourself, it is important to remain neutral and gather all the evidence before determining fault. This includes taking pictures of the damage, getting witness statements, and consulting with an attorney. By compiling all the facts, you can clearly and accurately describe what happened in the accident. This can help you achieve a fair settlement for your insurance claim and can be beneficial if you decide to pursue legal action.

Do NOT Neglect to Call the Police

In most states, it is mandatory to report a car accident to the police if any injury, death, or property damage exceeds a certain amount. Failure to report an accident can result in legal penalties. It is important to check your state’s specific laws regarding reporting car accidents.

Having a police report can be beneficial in several ways. For one, it serves as an official record of the accident, providing a detailed account of what happened and who was involved. This can be useful when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Additionally, a police report can help establish who is at fault for the accident. This can be crucial for determining who is liable for damages, injuries, or deaths.

In short, it is important to call the police and file a report after a car accident, even if it seems minor. Not only is it a legal requirement in most cases, but it can also provide important information for insurance and legal purposes.

Do NOT Forget to Exchange Information

In the event of a car accident, it is important to exchange information with the other driver. This includes:

• Names and contact information of all drivers involved in the accident
• Insurance information, including the policy number and the name of the insurance company
• License plate numbers of all vehicles involved
• Information of any passengers or witnesses

Exchanging information with the other driver is crucial for many reasons. First, it is important to have the other driver’s insurance information to file a claim. With it, the process can be completed on time.

Additionally, having accurate information about the other driver can be important if you decide to pursue legal action. This information can be used to contact the driver and their insurance company and identify the driver in court.

Do NOT Forget to Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as whiplash or traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent. By getting checked out by a medical professional, you can document any injuries and ensure that you receive the proper treatment.

Car accidents can be traumatic, and the adrenaline rush can mask the symptoms of injuries. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not show signs until a day or two after the accident. Other injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not be apparent at all.

Additionally, some injuries, like injuries to the neck or back, can have long-term effects if left untreated. By seeking medical attention, you can ensure that you receive the proper diagnosis and treatment for any injuries you may have sustained.

Do NOT Forget to Contact an Attorney

While it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible after a car accident. We don’t recommend it. 

Instead, contact an experienced attorney who specializes in accident cases so they can assist you in filing a claim. 

Terhovsepian Law

If you have been involved in a car accident and are in need of legal assistance, Terhovsepian Law can help. Our dedicated and experienced team of attorneys specializes in car accident cases. They understand the complexities of the legal system and have the knowledge and resources to help you navigate the process of filing an insurance claim and pursuing legal action.

Our lawyers will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. They will handle all the legal details and paperwork, leaving you free to focus on your recovery. They will also provide you with guidance and support throughout the process, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Don’t hesitate to contact Terhovsepian Law Injury Lawyers if you have been involved in a car accident. We provide free consultations to help you understand your rights and options. You can trust that we will do everything in our power to get you the best possible outcome.

Conclusion

By understanding these mistakes and taking the necessary steps to avoid them, you can ensure your safety and protect your rights.

It is important to stay at the scene of the accident to exchange information and seek medical attention, to remain neutral and gather the evidence before determining fault, to call the police and file a report, to contact your insurance company as soon as possible, and to provide all the necessary information and documentation. It is also important to seek medical attention, even if you do not feel injured. It is also recommended to contact an attorney to help you navigate through the insurance claim process.