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Originally Posted On: https://floridaindependent.com/common-auto-collision-mistakes/

 

Did you know that the US is now home to 191 million licensed drivers? Or that auto accidents in the US resulted in an estimated 4.42 million non-fatal injuries in 2019?

That’s right. What’s even worse, however, is that imprudent drivers caused many of these injuries. In fact, almost seven in 10 drivers admit to texting while driving.

The problem is, not all auto collision victims receive compensation for their suffering. Some even fall under suspicion of contributing to the crash!

That’s why you need to know how to act and what to avoid doing in case you get involved in a car crash. This way, you can increase your chances of winning a personal injury claim.

Ready to learn all about these after-crash-related mistakes that you should avoid?

Then let’s dive right into it

Moving an Injured Person

No, you should not try to move accident victims from the scene. This is especially true if they have severe injuries, as moving them can cause more harm.

Keep in mind that car crashes can result in blunt chest trauma. You may not see any visible injuries, but this kind of injury could have broken a rib bone. In fact, 10% of patients admitted for blunt chest trauma have one or more chest fractures.

Moving someone with a fracture, however, can cause the bone’s sharp end to pierce the lung or another organ. This is a potentially life-threatening injury. That’s why it’s best that you dial 911 after a crash, especially if someone experiences chest pains.

Believing That You Don’t Have Major Injuries

One study looked at 161 emergency department patients involved in a vehicle crash. Of these people, only 72% reported moderate to severe pain. Meaning, as many as 45 patients either only felt “minor” pain or had no pain at all during the time of the ED visit.

The thing is, many types of car crash injuries, such as a herniated disc, don’t exhibit symptoms right away. For instance, a study found that 20% of asymptomatic crash patients under 60 had a herniated disc. In patients 60 and older, the rate went up to a staggering 57%.

Whiplash, brain injuries, and internal bleeding can also have delayed symptoms. These injuries may not become apparent until after days or weeks.

The bottom line is, you should get a complete body checkup as soon as you can after getting into a crash. Yes, even if you feel fine and have no symptoms right after the accident. This is the only way to be 100% sure that you are free of injuries.

Otherwise, your injuries may worsen if you don’t get proper treatment right away. This, in turn, can then lead to chronic health problems or even permanent damage.

Moreover, you may end up having an invalid claim if you do develop symptoms long after the crash. The other driver may counter your claim by saying that there’s another reason for your injury.

Letting Your Emotions Get the Better Of You

True, this is easier said than done, particularly if you’re sure that you didn’t do anything to cause the crash. Still, it’s best that you bite your tongue and limit your conversation with the other driver. Shouting, name-calling, and instigating a fight may land you in hot water, even if you weren’t at fault.

How come?

It’s possible that bystanders, when interviewed by police, may report you as “aggressive”. This may then raise eyebrows and concerns with the 5-0 about your driving behavior.

So, it’s best to stay as calm as you can and simply ask the other driver for their details. All you need from them is their personal, vehicle, and insurance information.

Apologizing

Yes, you’re sorry that the accident occurred, even if it wasn’t your fault. However, the other driver may think of this as an admission of guilt. This can then hurt your chances of winning your personal injury claim.

Thinking the Auto Collision Is “Too Minor” To Involve the Police

Automobile accident laws vary by state, but all recommend calling up the police after a crash. Yes, even if it’s only a fender-bender, you should still report the accident. This way, you can have a trained officer assess and investigate the scene of the crash.

The police will also document all pertinent information, including your side. You should get a copy of the police report, as it will serve as proof later on when you file a claim. Be sure to get the complete name, badge number, and contact details of the reporting officers too.

Not Getting in Touch With an Accident Lawyer

Once you have the other driver’s info and the police report, get in touch with your insurer. Let them know what happened and tell them that you have all the important documents with you.

After this, speak with an experienced car accident lawyer. You should do this even if you live in a state with a no-fault car accident law. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you may still be able to sue outside of this law.

This is even more important if you live in an at-fault state, where you may be at the mercy of the other driver’s insurer. Without legal counsel, you may end up agreeing to a settlement that’s far lower than you deserve.

Don’t Let These Mistakes Cost You Your Personal Injury Claim

There you have it, everything you need to know about what to do and what not to do after an auto collision. Even the smallest mistakes, such as saying sorry, can already be damaging on your part. As such, do your best to keep calm, contact the police, and hire a car accident lawyer instead.

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