There are various steps people should absolutely take after getting involved in a car accident. People should exchange insurance information, contact the police to file a report and take photographs of the scene.
However, there are just as many things to not do after an accident as there are to do. One wrong move can greatly impact the insurance claims process, so people need to watch their steps.
1. Do not say you are sorry
This seems mean, but if you say “I am sorry” after an accident, then the other party could view it as you admitting guilt. You may want to admit some amount of guilt because the other driver may appear hurt or distraught, but it is vital to simply stick to the facts. Exchange insurance and contact information, and keep it to that.
2. Do not speak to an insurance adjuster
You need to inform your auto insurance agency of the accident so they can begin the claims process. However, you simply want to tell them about the accident. Do not offer any additional information. The adjuster may ask you questions that seem harmless, but the wrong response could negatively affect your payout.
3. Do not lie to your doctor about your medical past
You should always see a doctor following a collision even if it was minor. Your doctor will naturally ask about your medical history, and you should inform him or her of any injuries you experienced in the past. Lying will only increase the chances of a misdiagnosis.
4. Do not volunteer superfluous information
When speaking to any professional after a crash, whether it is an insurance adjuster or police officer, simply state the facts. You may need to answer the question, “Where were you heading?” You can answer, “To work,” but you would not want to give more details, such as “To work, but I was late because my alarm did not go off.” Those kinds of details reflect negatively on you and can impact the insurance claims process.
