Want To Wreck Your Auto Accident Claim? Do These 4 Things

You are probably familiar with the list of things to do immediately after a car accident: get the names and addresses of witnesses, exchange car insurance information, and talk to a car accident attorney if needed. But do you know that there are a few things that you should never do in the minutes and hours after a car wreck?

Never apologize or admit guilt at the scene of the car accident. Those of us that have been in a car accident before know that even a minor wreck can be an upsetting, bewildering experience that can leave you mentally and physically shaken. It is normal to not fully understand what happened to cause the accident and to want to say sorry afterward, whether or not it was actually your fault. The fact is that you probably don't know what caused the accident, and only further investigation will reveal who was at fault. Resist the urge to make an apology.

Never give a statement to an insurance company without talking to an attorney first. Generally it is necessary to report an accident to your auto insurance company, but just be careful about going on record or giving your official statement so soon after the accident. You need to realize that an insurance company representative may use a number of tricks in order to get you to talk. Therefore, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you to better understand your case before you speak about the accident.

Never leave the scene of the accident before speaking with police officers. Leaving the scene of a car accident directly after it has happened is considered a hit-and-run offense, while leaving the scene of a car accident that involves serious injury has even more dire consequences. Stop after an accident, assist anyone who needs help, and answer any questions from officers who arrive at the scene. Don't leave until the authorities make it clear that you can go.

Never refuse medical attention. A major auto accident can involve significant mental distress and physical trauma. It is important to understand that first responders and medical professionals at the scene of the wreck probably know more about your physical health than you do. You may not realize that you are injured, or you may have suffered a head injury that confuses you. Many folks decline medical treatment because they think they are in fine shape directly after the accident, while some just want to be done with the car accident experience. However, it is important that you take the advice of the medical personnel on the scene, whether or not you feel the need to do so.

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