Avoid these 3 post-incident mistakes
Imagine driving across town, on your way to work. Your day seems off to a good start until another driver suddenly plows into the back of your car at a stop light. Now, you have a damaged car and various aches and pains in your back and neck. But, what should you do?
Avoiding costly mistakes after a wreck is just as important as reporting the wreck to your insurer, seeing a doctor to assess your injuries and taking your car to the repair shop for a quote. Here are a few things you shouldn’t do after a motor vehicle collision.
Not calling the police
After a minor car incident, some people fail to call the police. Instead they simply exchange insurance information and intend to handle the aftermath themselves. Unfortunately, this can be a costly mistake, especially since some insurance companies require a police report before they approve a claim. Not matter how minor the incident might seem to you, always call the police so that you can get an official report on the incident, its cause and law enforcement’s indication of who was at fault.
Not documenting the incident
In the first moments after a car incident, take the time to take pictures of your car, the other driver’s car and the scene of the crash. Also, talk to witnesses and get their statements about what happened and obtain their contact information. This could be a valuable asset if the insurance company fights back on approving your claim. Once you are home and can recall the details of the incident, write down your account of what happened. Stick to the facts and avoid including your opinion concerning the cause of the collision. You will need this when you give your statement to your insurance company and the other driver’s insurer.
Apologizing to the other driver
One of the worst things you can do after a car wreck is to apologize to the other driver. Even if you think it is obvious who was at fault for the wreck and you are simply trying to comfort the other driver, an apologetic statement can come back to haunt you. The other driver’s insurance company can claim that your apology was an admission of guilt for causing the incident and can deny your claim.
If you have been the victim of car incident because of the actions of a reckless or negligent driver, it is important to remember what you should and should not do after a wreck. Also, keep in mind that you might be able to file a claim for the damages to your car and your injuries. Call Robes Law Group today at (561) 570-5700 or use link below to schedule a free consultation with our firm.
The information contained in this blog is merely for informational purposes and is not intended as legal advice.
