Alongside the important things of what to do after a car accident is what not to do. As important as it is to gather all necessary documentation, accepting guilt or not calling the police can impact the future success of your claim or in defending yourself against accusations of responsibility. Below are behaviors and activities to avoid after being involved in a car accident.
Claim or Accept Responsibility
The single most disastrous thing you could do following a car accident is claim or accept responsibility. Even if you are the cause behind a rear-end collision, in which it is obviously your fault, keep silent about any responsibility you may have. Do not blame yourself or state that you caused the accident. If you are issued a ticket by a police officer, accept the ticket without comment. Statements made at the scene of the accident, and particularly those about your liability, can be used against you later in settlement negotiations or a lawsuit.
Object To or Not Contact the Police
Despite the legal repercussions, such as a ticket, that can result from involving the police not calling the police can have disastrous effects. No matter how small the accident, always contact the police and request that a report be made. The police report will contain all pertinent information about the accident and involved parties and make any future claim or defense easier.
Refuse Medical Treatment
Do not think that by not treating your injuries you will increase the amount of your compensation award or settlement. The majority of states reduce an injured party’s compensation by the percentage of fault attributable to him. This includes when the injured party does not care for his injuries as a reasonably prudent person would. Failing to treat your injuries and subsequently suffering more pain or permanent damage is not compensable. Therefore, you would be responsible for any medical bills and other costs associated with your aggravated injury.
Trust the Other Parties
Many times, the other party will request that you handle the problem without notifying your insurance companies. However, after driving away, there is very little impetus for the other party to adequately compensate you for your damages. Always obtain the other side’s insurance and personal information so that should you need to file a claim in the future you will have it to rely on.
Getting Legal Advice
If you are involved in an auto accident, seek legal advice as soon as possible. A lawyer will review the facts of the accident and your injury and discuss obtaining compensation with you.
