3 Crucial Actions to Avoid Following a Car Crash
The aftermath of a car accident often brings uncertainty for all parties involved. Whether you’ve experienced severe injuries or property damage, anticipating collaboration from the at-fault party for compensation is common. While maintaining composure may be challenging, especially in the wake of injuries, here are key actions you must steer clear of immediately after the accident.
1. Neglecting to Report the Accident
In the aftermath of an accident, some may contemplate leaving the scene promptly, particularly if injuries or property damage appear minor. However, resisting the urge to flee is crucial. Instead, prioritize contacting law enforcement officers and emergency responders. These officers are mandated to complete a comprehensive crash report while emergency personnel tend to injured parties.
A crash report is a vital document, encompassing crucial details like the accident date, involved parties, injuries, fatalities, property damage, eyewitness accounts, and insurance information. This report proves invaluable for accident victims seeking compensation through a personal injury claim.
It’s essential to note that leaving the accident scene, especially with injuries or property damage, automatically constitutes a misdemeanor offense, potentially resulting in fines or imprisonment.
2. Providing Statements to Insurance Companies Sans Legal Representation
Insurance companies representing the at-fault party often seek statements regarding the accident, typically through their adjusters. However, be wary, as this is a common strategy employed by insurance companies to extract information that contradicts the insured driver’s statement, potentially attributing partial liability to you.
The insurance adjuster might also present a settlement offer, particularly when the responsible party’s liability is unquestionable. While tempting, especially when facing medical expenses, it’s imperative not to engage without your attorney present. Your lawyer will assess injuries and damages to determine the fairness of the settlement offer.
3. Avoiding Social Media Posts About the Accident
The temptation to share frustrations about the accident on social media is understandable but ill-advised. Anything posted on social platforms can adversely impact your personal injury claim. Unlike earlier times when social media wasn’t prevalent, insurance companies and the opposing party’s attorneys now scour these platforms, seeking opportunities to challenge your statements, downplay pain, and diminish the damages’ value.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise if defendants leverage your online activity to undermine your case. Your posts might be used to argue that your injuries are less severe than claimed or to highlight comments that contradict sworn statements.
Conclusion
Navigating a car accident case or any personal injury case involves inherent complexities. Contrary to popular belief, obtaining compensation for damages and bodily injuries post-accident is far from a straightforward process. Seeking guidance from an experienced car accident attorney becomes imperative during this challenging period.