If you ever are to get in a car accident, it’s not uncommon for you to be so shocked and stressed the you react in ways that you otherwise wouldn’t. As a part of this, you might make decisions about things or overlook things that you normally shouldn’t when thinking about how to handle being in a car accident. So to help ensure that you don’t make any big mistakes that could end up making this situation worse for you, here are three things you shouldn’t do when you get in a car accident.
Leave The Scene Too Early
To have been in a car accident, you’re likely in your car because you have somewhere to be by a certain time. Because of this, you might be anxious to get back on the road as soon as possible, especially if you don’t think the accident was too bad. However, you should be very careful with how soon you leave a car accident. According to Patrick E. George, a contributor to How Stuff Works, you legally have to check on the other car, exchange the necessary information, and notify the authorities that there’s been a car accident. This can usually take more time than you want to be spending, but it’s something that you have to stick around for if you don’t want to be in trouble with the law.
Admit You’re At Fault
After the dust has settled and you get out of your car to check on your car and the other people involved, you might feel a knee-jerk reaction to start apologizing. Even if you don’t necessarily think that accident was caused because of you, many people feel sorry to be in the situation to begin with and will express those feelings to the other people there. However, Brett Snider, a contributor to FindLaw.com, shares that you should avoid saying anything that could be construed as admitting guilt or fault in the accident. This will be very important if the accident gets turned into a case against you or your insurance company.
Give Out Too Much Personal Information
When people think about exchanging information after a car accident, it can be unclear exactly what type of information they’re referring to. You might think that you should be giving out any information the person might need to contact you. However, Micah Wright, a contributor to CheatSheet.com, shares that you should only give out information relating to your insurance. If you need to be contacted during the process, your insurance or the police should contact you, not the other driver.
To ensure you handle a car accident the right way, consider using the tips mentioned above so you don’t make any mistakes.
