While it seems clear the steps one should take following a motor vehicle accident, there are specific things that could either help or hurt a potential personal injury case. Even if no injury seems apparent, it is important to pay attention to the events in case a crash-related injury manifests after. In the interests of helping to facilitate the needs of personal injury victims, here are the most common things accident victims should do following a car collision as well as the things they should not do.
Obviously, you should seek medical attention, whether or not you feel you have been injured. This way, you are covered if you begin to feel something is not right after the accident. You should also call the police so that they can investigate the scene of the accident and complete a report. If you decide to pursue a personal injury lawsuit after the accident, the police report will contain details that could benefit your case. Other things to do after the accident include exchanging information with the other driver, taking photographs of the scene and the vehicles and documenting any work you may have missed.
Regarding what not to do in the wake of a vehicle accident, they are simple but important. First, don’t move your car unless a police officer tells you to move. Second, do not get rid of potential evidence such as damaged car parts or bloody clothing. Finally, do not engage in a discussion over who was at fault with the other driver. This includes not apologizing and not admitting to anything whatsoever. Remember, such discussions are potential evidence, even if they were only meant as an expression of empathy.
Summing up, one more thing you absolutely should do is to contact a New York-based attorney as soon after an auto collision as possible. Doing so will ensure you are prepared if you do decide you need to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver.
Source: FindLaw, “Car Accident Dos and Don’ts” Dec. 29, 2014
