Car accidents are an unfortunate reality that many of us may face at one point or another. In the aftermath of a car accident, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take next. To help you navigate this difficult situation, we’ve compiled a list of common mistakes to avoid after a car accident.
- Not Calling the Police:
One of the first things you should do after a car accident is to call the police. Even if the accident seems minor, having an official police report can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies and potential legal issues. This is a critical step as the police can gather evidence. More importantly, the police can question the parties involved in the collision, and this will occur before the at-fault party has an opportunity to be coached by their insurance company. For these reasons, it is critically important to call the police after any crash.
- Failing to Collect Evidence:
Collecting evidence at the scene of the accident is crucial. Be sure to take photos of the damage to all vehicles involved, as well as any injuries sustained. Additionally, gather the contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. It may be the case that your injuries are too severe for you to gather any evidence. If that’s the case, and you have not yet retained an attorney to help you with the case, it would be helpful for your family to gather any photos or other evidence that might be available after the crash.
- Admitting Fault:
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It is important to be careful about what you say after a car accident. Never admit fault or make statements that could be used against you later. Instead, stick to the facts and allow the police and insurance companies to determine who was at fault. While this sounds like an under-handed suggestion, the truth is that “fault” in this context depends on many, many variables. You may feel guilty at the time of the crash for doing something or failing to do something that you know is not legal or appropriate at the time of the crash. Despite that, your inappropriate conduct may not have had any impact whatsoever on the crash or the cause of the crash. For that reason, it is important for you not to make an admission at the scene of the crash when you are emotional, you do not have the full story, and you still need to gather evidence.
- Not Seeking Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine after an accident, it is essential to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. In fact, it is remarkable how many people have a surge of adrenaline after a crash and claim that they feel fine. After several hours that adrenaline wears off and they realize that they are experiencing not just muscle stiffness, but oftentimes spasms or other muscular problems. The same is true for traumatic brain injuries. It may be the case that you feel fine after a crash but the reality is that you are being propelled by an adrenaline surge that prevents you from realizing the extent of your deficits. If nothing else, seeing a doctor will help you ensure that you are being properly evaluated by a medical professional, that you receive any necessary medical treatment, and that you have documentation of your injuries.
- Settling Too Quickly:
Insurance companies may try to settle your claim quickly and for less than you deserve. You may find, for example, that you start receiving calls from insurance adjusters while you are still at the hospital. They are aggressive and they will work hard to close your claim long before you have any idea the extent of your injuries and the impact they have had on your life. Rather than sign a release quickly to settle a claim soon after a crash, it is always better to let the proverbial dust settle. Wait for a little while to make sure your injuries resolve in a satisfactory manner, and be sure you do not have any lingering symptoms that do not resolve. After all, you must keep in mind that you have only one injury case; once it is settled, you cannot go back and bring another claim if you find out your injuries are worse than first expected. It is essential to remember that you have the right to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offers. And, depending on the circumstances, you may have the right to withdraw certain settlements if you act quickly and the settlement was reached soon after the crash occurred. As of 2025, this law is located at Va. Code sec. 8.01-425.1. Contact an attorney immediately if you believe this is your situation.
- Not Contacting a Lawyer:
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be complicated, especially if you are injured or if there are disputes about who was at fault. In these situations, it is in your best interest to consult with a professional Richmond, VA car accident lawyer. They will be able to guide you through the legal process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Not Reporting the Accident to Your Insurance Company:
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Even if the accident was not your fault, it is crucial to report it to your insurance company as soon as possible. Failing to do so can result in your claim being denied. When reporting the accident, be sure to provide all necessary documentation, including the police report, photos of the damage, and any medical records related to the accident. It may be the case that the driver who caused the crash was uninsured, in which case you may need to rely upon your own policy to provide needed coverage for your injuries.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of a successful outcome following a car accident. If you’ve been in an accident and need legal assistance, we invite you to reach out to us at MartinWren, P.C. We are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest quality legal representation and will work tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. Let us handle the legal aspects of your case so that you can focus on recovering and moving forward with your life.
Call us today for a free consultation.
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