17/06/2024
NEWS STORY
There are more than 284 million vehicles on US roads, which makes it highly likely you will be involved in an accident at least once in your lifetime. While your first instinct may be to make sure everyone is okay physically, there are also some critical steps you should take or avoid in the aftermath of an accident to protect yourself legally and financially down the road.
Ron Johnson, an experienced car accident attorney in Louisville, shares seven things you should never do after a car accident:
1. Leave the Accident Scene
One of the worst things you can do is leave the scene of the accident, even if you think it was just a minor fender bender. Leaving the scene not only makes you look guilty, but it is also illegal in most states. Always remain at the scene, move your vehicle, if it is drivable to a safe location out of traffic, and wait for the police to arrive. Research shows that 566 people were killed in crashes involving a disabled vehicle between 2016 and 2018.
2. Admit Fault or Guilt After The Car Accident
Even if you think the accident was your fault, never admit fault or guilt to the other driver. Anything you say can be used against you later if the police file a report or if the other driver decides to sue. Let your insurance company determine the fault later after a thorough investigation. Simply exchange information politely and stick to the facts.
3. Forge Ahead with Repairs to Your Car After an Accident
Taking your car to an auto body shop for repairs after a car accident may be tempting. But make sure you contact your insurance company first and get their assessment. Rushing into repairs could affect your claim if they cost more than the vehicle's worth.
4. Neglect Medical Attention
Just because you don't feel injured right away does not mean you're in the clear medically. Many accident injuries like whiplash aren't evident immediately - there are around 869,000 car crash-related whiplash injuries annually. See a doctor promptly after the accident and mention it was the result of a car crash so it is documented in your medical record.
5. Forget to Document the Scene
Take photos of the damage to both vehicles, the roadway, skid marks, and the overall scene of the accident if it is safe to do so. The police may not document every detail. Photos can help protect you against any discrepancies in police reports later on.
6. Avoid Reporting the Accident
Even if the accident seems minor, you should always report it to the police and your insurance provider. Not reporting the accident can be illegal, but more importantly, it deprives you of having an official record from an unbiased third party if issues arise later.
7. Discuss Your Case on Social Media
It can be tempting to vent about your accident online or even post photos of the damage. But avoid doing this, as it can actually hurt your case down the line. Insurance companies may try to use your posts against you. Keep quiet about the details and let your car accident attorney handle things.
Following a car accident, it's normal to feel shaken up and uncertain about the next steps. But keeping these things in mind can help you avoid compromising your rights or insurance claim. Focus on exchanging information properly, getting medical help, and contacting the police and your provider promptly.