Car accidents can be very exciting events, but not in a good way. Not in the way ziplining or riding a roller coaster is exciting. Rather, exciting in the way that they cause the body to be flooded with adrenaline. Some people even get so excited or scared, that they flee the scene of an accident, even when it’s not their fault.
Fleeing, of course, is the last thing you want to do because if you flee the scene of a crash, you can face criminal charges, fines, and incarceration. Fleeing aside, people are in the habit of making mistakes after an accident. They don’t understand what’s required of them or how insurance claims work, so they unwittingly say and do things that end up being counterproductive during the claims process.
Avoid These Car Accident Don’ts
Sometimes, a simple, honest mistake on behalf of a driver can be devastating to their personal injury claim. In light of these concerns, here’s what not to do after a car accident.
- NEVER flee the scene of a crash. Even if the accident is not your fault, you still have a legal duty to stop and see if anyone needs an ambulance, call the police, and exchange information with the other driver(s).
- Do not admit fault, ever. If you do and it’s not actually your fault, it can derail your insurance claim. The insurance company could deny your valid claim because you said the accident was all your fault. Instead of admitting fault, stick to the facts and let the insurance company decide on liability.
- Do not avoid seeking medical attention. If you don’t see a doctor or chiropractor within 72 hours at the most and you later complain of injuries, the insurance company could argue that you couldn’t possibly be hurt because you failed to see a doctor promptly. My advice is to see a doctor as soon as possible after a crash, even if you think you’re okay – don’t wait more than three days but within 24 hours is best. Adrenaline is very good at masking pain, so it could take a few days to start feeling the pain from a crash.
- Do not forget to gather evidence. Evidence is very important and it can disappear after a crash. If you’re not too injured, take pictures, record video, take pictures of the road conditions, weather, etc. Gather eye witness information, and if you have bloody or torn clothing, save them! The more evidence you can collect and preserve, the better for your case!
- Do not give a recorded statement. If an insurance company asks you for a recorded statement, do not give one without speaking to an attorney first.
- Do not accept a low-ball settlement. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses and the way they make money is by low-balling injured parties. Whatever you do, don’t accept a low-ball insurance settlement offer from the insurance company because whatever they’re offering you is likely less, probably far less, than your case is worth. Instead, hire a seasoned injury lawyer to protect your best interests and seek the compensation you truly deserve.
Next: Is Colorado a Fault Car Accident State?
In an accident? To file a claim for compensation, I urge you to contact my firm today at (720) 809-8262.