A motor vehicle crash can be a harrowing experience even if no one is injured, and damage to vehicles or other property is kept to a minimum. Many thoughts go through a person’s mind immediately after a crash, and even a small mistake can lead to potential consequences.
First and foremost, it’s essential to determine whether you or anyone else is hurt and call 911 immediately, regardless of how minor an injury might seem. Keeping a clear head is critical for your physical and financial well-being.
Frequent errors in judgment for car crashes
While it’s crucial to remember what to do immediately after a crash, it’s just as important to avoid these common mistakes:
- Failing to call the police: Officers collect valuable evidence at the scene of the crash and keep it from becoming your word against the other driver or drivers. If they issue citations against another party, that can help establish fault.
- Admitting guilt: Don’t take responsibility for a crash even if you think you are to blame. It’s just as likely there are details of which you are not aware. Also, saying you’re “sorry” after a crash to another party can be seen as an admission of guilt.
- Leaving the scene: If you panic and leave the scene of the crash, you’ve broken the law. Even if the other party doesn’t want to get police involved, stay put until officers arrive. If you leave early, the other party could end up falsely accusing you.
- Failing to gather crucial evidence: If you are injured, your priority is getting medical attention. However, if you are able, taking pictures of the scene and gathering personal information on the other parties as well as witnesses can be crucial to your claim.
- Accepting an insurer’s offer too quickly: Insurance companies will likely press you to settle sooner rather than later and offer you less than you deserve when settling your medical costs as well as damage to your vehicle. Take enough time to make sure all your expenses will be covered.
Seek legal advice to protect your interests
An experienced personal injury attorney here in Florida will aggressively defend your rights if you have been injured in a motor vehicle crash. Battling with insurance companies can be a complicated and tricky process, even in the case where no significant injuries or damage occur. Your attorney will protect you and work to get you the compensation you deserve.