4 Actions That Can Destroy Your Auto Accident Claim

Exchange insurance information. Track down witnesses. Speak to your attorney. These are the things informed persons know to do after they have been in a car accident. But what about the things you should never do after your auto accident?Never apologize or admit guilt at the scene of the car accident. Those of us that have been in a car accident before know that even a minor wreck can be an upsetting, bewildering experience that can leave you mentally and physically shaken. It is normal to not fully understand what happened to cause the accident and to want to say sorry afterward, whether or not it was actually your fault. The truth of the matter is that neither party really knows who is at fault immediately following the accident. Fault will likely be determined only by a more detailed investigation. Resist the urge to make an apology.Never give a statement to an insurance company without talking to an attorney first. Generally it is necessary to report an accident to your auto insurance company, but just be careful about going on record or giving your official statement so soon after the accident. You need to realize that an insurance company representative may use a number of tricks in order to get you to talk. Therefore, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you to better understand your case before you speak about the accident.Never leave the scene of the accident before speaking with police officers. Leaving the scene of a car accident directly after it has happened is considered a hit-and-run offense, while leaving the scene of a car accident that involves serious injury has even more dire consequences. Stop after an accident, assist anyone who needs help, and answer any questions from officers who arrive at the scene. Never leave the scene of the accident until the powers that be say it is fine for you to leave.Never refuse medical attention. A major auto accident can involve significant mental distress and physical trauma. It is important to understand that first responders and medical professionals at the scene of the wreck probably know more about your physical health than you do. You may not realize that you are injured, or you may have suffered a head injury that confuses you. Many folks decline medical treatment because they think they are in fine shape directly after the accident, while some just want to be done with the car accident experience. However, it is important that you take the advice of the medical personnel on the scene, whether or not you feel the need to do so warns a Dallas medical malpractice attorney.