What Not to Do After an Accident

Car accidents are difficult and stressful. When involved in an accident, you may be in so much shock that you aren’t sure what to do next. While there are steps that you need to take in order to have a less stressful experience, many people aren’t aware of them. Instead of focusing on what you need to do during an accident, it is important to know what not to do. Here are three tips on what not to do after a car accident.

Do Not Flee the Scene

If you flee the scene of an accident, you could be charged with a hit-and-run. This is a very serious offense. Whatever you do, if you are in an accident, it is important that you stop. Even if you don’t think the accident was that bad, you need to stop and exchange information with the other person. This is your best move to receive compensation for the car accident. If you flee, it often tells the police that you probably have something to hide.

Do Not Accept Money

Never accept money from another driver. If you are in a wreck with someone who doesn’t have insurance, he or she may try to offer you money after the accident for any damages that he or she can see. It is a bad idea to accept this money. Not only can it damage your case, if you decide to pursue it in the future, but odds are the other driver is only offering because he or she doesn’t have insurance.

Do Not Avoid Medical Care

After an accident, you may not feel the extent of your injuries. You could still be in shock or your adrenaline could be high enough that you don’t recognize how serious the damages are. What you should never do, however, is avoid going to the doctor. It is recommended that you see the doctor, even if you feel fine, as you could have injuries that you are unaware of. When you receive treatment early, not only do you better your chances of a full recovery, but you are also gathering evidence of your injuries due to the accident. You will need that documentation when it comes to filing your claim.

If you plan to file a claim against another driver, then you need to make sure that you stay on the scene, do not accept money, or avoid medical care. If you need more information on how to handle your car accident case, then contact a car accident lawyer, like a car accident lawyer in Woodland Hills, CA, as soon as possible.

Thanks to the law offices of Barry P. Goldberg for their insight into a few of the things you should not do after being involved in a car accident.