We’ve discussed the steps you should take following a car accident at length, but what about what NOT to do? Depending on the circumstances, car accidents can be quite stressful and cause people to act on adrenaline. Car accidents happen every single day across the United States, many of which result in a serious injury or even death. According to statistics, there are more than 6 million collisions in the U.S each year, and 3 million of these accidents result in injury to either passengers or pedestrians. Furthermore, 2 million drivers are injured permanently and nearly 100 people are killed every single day. These numbers are shocking, to say the least.
If you have ever been involved in a car accident, chances are you know that the process can get quite complicated for all parties involved. It is not uncommon to be confused or scared immediately following an accident, especially if it was more serious than a simple fender bender. That being said, it is of the utmost importance you both understand what to do, and what NOT to do. The actions taken right after an accident can dictate what will happen in the future, so it is imperative you don’t do anything that could harm your case. With that being said, let’s look at what NOT to do after a car accident:
- Do NOT Leave the Scene – One of the biggest mistakes people make following a car accident is leaving the scene. Even if you have just been involved in a minor fender bender, it is against the law to leave the scene of an accident in most states, including Oklahoma. In order to avoid penalties and make sure everything is handled correctly, stay put.
- Do NOT Avoid Calling the Police – Contacting the authorities is one of the first things you should do following a car accident. If the other driver tries to talk you out of it, saying you can handle this on your own, do not agree with them. Failing to contact the police can result in serious repercussions and could create more problems for you.
- Do NOT Apologize to the Other Driver – Even if you are sorry about the accident, do not apologize to the other driver. We know it is human nature to apologize after an accident like this, but your words could be used against you as an admission of guilt.
- Do NOT Confront the Other Driver – Do your best to stay cool following an accident, even if the other driver was at fault and caused serious damage. Losing your cool and getting angry could be used against you in court, and it could also put you in a dangerous situation. Stay focused on your own safety and that of your passengers, instead, and calmly wait for the police to arrive.
- Do NOT Forget to Exchange Information – One of your top priorities following a car accident should be to exchange information with the other driver, so make sure you do this as soon as possible. By failing to do so, you could be hurting yourself down the road. Make sure you get the driver’s name, phone number, address, license plate number, and the name of their insurance company.
We understand how stressful car accidents can be, which is why we want to make sure you understand what to do, and what NOT to do. If you have been involved in a car accident in Oklahoma, please contact AMA Law today. Our personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions you may have and help you navigate your case from here on out.