What Not To Do in The Aftermath of an Auto Accident

Car Accident Lawyer

Compared to residents in most European and Asian countries, Americans have an incredible reliance on cars. To traverse great distances, whether for relocating, visiting family, or going on a nice, casual road trip, there are many personal benefits that one enjoys from opting out of the plane ride and opting for a good, long drive. But the higher number of cars on the roads in America means there is a greater probability of car accidents, making auto collisions one of the most common causes of death in the U.S.

Despite being one of the most common causes of death, and despite there being no shortage of dramatic portrayals of these events, most people have no idea what to do and what not to do after the event of a car accident. These scenarios are tense and emotional, so it’s understandable that one ends up doing something that he/she wouldn’t normally do. However, there are certain actions that can bar and hinder you from getting a decent settlement, so it’s best you avoid doing the following:

Admitting Fault/Apologizing: Accident scenes are emotional, and people tend to say a lot when they’re caught up in the moment, but one of the worst things you can do to yourself is apologize or show remorse in the situation. Doing so is akin to admitting that you’re guilty and 100% at fault. Even if you later express that you were emotional at the time and that the fault in fact lies with the other party, your words will still be used against you. This is one of the easiest ways to lose a case, so keep this in mind.

Not Gathering Evidence/Photos: Another no-brainer, not gathering evidence will leave you and your lawyer with less ammunition to fight with, thus putting you at a disadvantage. In the aftermath of an accident, it’s never good to just trust that law enforcement and witnesses or others around you will take pictures for you and that everything will be fine. Even if pictures are taken, you can’t expect the pictures to reveal the entirety of the story by showing the angles that best represent it. So, provided that you are not severely injured, don’t leave things to chance and take the opportunity to gather evidence so you can tell your side of the story.

Fleeing From The Accident: Not only does this prevent you from exchanging contact info with the other party and setting up a case, exiting the scene of an accident is a crime. Apart from the fact that you could be leaving someone who could be severely injured, just the act of leaving conveys that you are at fault and that you are trying to avoid an envisioned punishment. No matter how bad you think things will be, it will always be worse if you leave the scene of an accident.

Don’t get caught unaware!  Consider checking out the car accident lawyer page or contact the team at Free Legal Advice