When you’re involved in an accident, it is absolutely mind-blowing. Whether it’s the first time or perhaps a third occurrence, the gut wrench is always the same. And so is the best advice about eight things you must never do when involved in an accident.
What NOT to do After a Car Accident
Never leave the scene of a vehicular accident
Leaving the scene of an accident has more ramifications and unintended consequences than most people could ever imagine. Of course, fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal, but besides that, it gives the appearance of being uncooperative or guilty. But most importantly, it “abandons the field” to potential adversaries. Meaning you’re no longer present at the accident scene to protect your better interests while others are. This allows malcontented people opportunities to change physical evidence or rally the support of others against you.
After an accident, people could be hiding liquor bottles, drug paraphernalia, weapons, or stolen goods. You never know who you have encountered. You would not invite complete strangers into your home and then walk out leaving them free to go through things, would you? Think of accident scenes the same way. You should be present and observant.
If another driver does flee the scene of an accident, resist the temptation to pursue them. Do your best to get a good description of the vehicle, the driver, and other occupants. What are their appearances? Try to see the license plate and at least make out what state it’s from. Perhaps capture or remember as many as of the alphanumerical symbols as possible.
Now, crime movies and television shows have over conditioned us to pay too much attention to license plates. These can be easily removed, swapped out, or even stolen. It’s much more important to remember the physical features and details of the vehicle. What was the make, model, year, or color of the vehicle? Any distinguishing or unusual features like aftermarket equipment or wheels? Sunroof? Where was the damage to the vehicle? Any broken glass, lights, or detached parts? These “big picture” info bits help officers spot vehicles sooner and allows them more time for assessment.
As the vehicle departs, watch its direction of travel for as far as you can keep an eye on it. Telling officers which way it went may prove helpful.
Again, do not pursue. Leave enforcement of the law to first responders. You have bigger issues immediately at hand on the scene that need your personal attention: personal safety, the safety of other occupants in your vehicle, the safety of others involved, snarled traffic, people endangered while trying to pass by, and property.
Your presence at an accident scene is mandatory. You should be present and observant.
Never say you are okay or uninjured
Immediately after an accident, the first thing people usually ask each other is, “Are you okay?” Whether genuine concern or just good manners among us, that is a question you should never say “yes” to.
You don’t know the certain answer! Oftentimes, injuries reveal themselves days, weeks, or months later. Only proper medical assessment can truly answer the question.
Never get into direct confrontations with other drivers.
People often become very emotionally charged at the scenes of accidents, especially when adrenalin has kicked in. Drivers were often already in a hurry when the accident occurred if speed was a factor.
In emergency panicked situations, people’s emotions present themselves differently, and accidents are certainly the most commonly occurring incidents where those panicky feelings become ignited. We might encounter angry people who rage like bulls and are ready to punch out everybody, or there might be a meek withdrawn mouse shrinking away from everyone and everything. Some people may be verbally aggressive and abusive. And others, as mentioned, can become genuine physical threats.
Let’s not overlook or neglect the fact that during an accident we also have to deal with our own personal emotions and physical effects. We do not typically respond as our best selves during times like these. Allowing space, time, and reflection to dominate our actions is well advised rather than allowing emotion to lead the way during momentary conflict.
Never profess guilt in an accident
As nice as you are, and as difficult as it is, never say you’re sorry or accept guilt while at the scene of an accident. While you may feel embarrassed to have been involved in an accident, that simple phrase “I’m sorry” can come back to haunt you. In the heat of the moment, you don’t know the full extent of damages, injuries, or perhaps impending death.
Never over speak or overstate
While at the scene of an accident, other involved parties and authorities may join in discussions or ask questions. Whatever you say during these moments can and will be used against you. Most often saying little or nothing will be your best ally. You do have the right to remain silent.
Should you choose to answer questions, do so succinctly. Be tight, direct, and to the point. Pause and think before you answer. Do not embellish. Do not add more information than what you were asked for. In general, at times like these, people talk too much.
Take note: following an accident you may be in shock yourself and unaware of the situation and what is specifically happening. People have been known to blank out and then remember very important details much later after they initially omitted them on reports. It’s not that they’re criminals or creative writers, . Iit’s just that the stress curve of the incident warped and distorted perceptions, delayed cognition, and created other strange impact.
Never fail to file an accident report
In the event of an accident in the State of Nevada where someone is injured, killed, or there is damage in excess of $750, you have 10 days to file a report. The 10-day report timeline is strict, and you should know that it may require some additional information be attached. So, don’t wait until the last possible minute.
Never deal directly with an insurance company
Even when it’s your own insurance company, after an accident do not deal directly with them. Insurance companies have invested billions of dollars to indoctrinate us into thinking that after an accident we have to immediately contact our insurance company. They spent millions in advertising that message. They won over driving educators who teach and preach the doctrine. And they even give us emergency contact cards for our glove boxes. Some people call their insurance companies before calling the police during an accident.
Insurance companies want it that way because they want to be as close to the source of the event as possible and bird dog it every step of the way after that. It helps them minimize costs and control things as much as possible after that. It’s smart business on their part. After all, even though they’re in the “surprise” business, they in fact plan that there will be X number of accidents and they still want to maintain a goal of minimizing surprises within that framework. They minimize surprises by getting to the starting lines with the customers when accidents occur, and they’re really good at it.
Never suffer a personal injury or significant damage or loss of property without the guidance of a qualified Nevada personal injury attorney.
After suffering an accident, there is nothing as refreshing as the help of a highly qualified southern Nevada personal injury attorney. It is absolutely liberating to hand the mess over to someone totally competent and in whom you have complete trust. They will handle everything. They’ll notify your insurance company about the accident, deal with filing claims, secure vehicle repairs, set you up with appropriate medical follow up, defend or initiate legal action, and make plans to secure your future.
Accident Recap – What you SHOULD do After an Accident
After an accident, prioritize safety by checking for injuries and calling emergency services. Stay at the scene, exchange information with the other driver, and document everything with photos and notes. Report the incident to the police and your insurance company, but avoid discussing fault. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, and consult a personal injury attorney to protect your rights and guide you through the process.
For almost 25 years the Paul Powell Law Firm has been helping people just like you. When you, a loved one, or friend have an accident, contact Paul Powell right away. Paul Powell. More Lawyer. Less Fee.