A traffic collision can be an incredibly jarring experience. You may be scared, stunned, unsure of what just transpired. Most motorists remain unfamiliar with the necessary steps to take after an accident. They may be influenced by politeness to apologize for something that wasn’t their fault.
Understanding what not to do after an accident
A motorist can put themselves at risk of certain liability through what they do and say following a motor vehicle accident. Here are some of the most mistakes that drivers make:
- Apologize or admit fault: If you say ‘sorry’ or attempt to apologize, this may be misconstrued as admitting fault, even if you weren’t the person at fault.
- Fail to contact the police: The police will collect evidence and attempt to determine fault, their reports are crucial to a strong claim.
- Waive medical attention: You need documentation of your injuries, even if they are minor. What may seem like slight tension in your neck now could be life-altering in a few days or weeks.
- Forget to take photos and compile evidence: You need to present as much evidence of the crash as possible. Documenting immediately afterward can help you avoid complications if the other driver has to move their vehicle out of the way of traffic.
- Waiting to file a claim: If too much time elapses, you may not be eligible for compensation any longer. In Virginia, the limitations for accident claims are two years, and in Maryland, it is three years.
Pursuing adequate compensation
Following a major traffic accident, serious injuries may not be as apparent as a broken bone. Neck damage and traumatic brain injuries may not become entirely evident for some time. Whenever you become seriously injured in a traffic collision, you need to contact an attorney experienced in motor vehicle accidents to pursue the compensation you deserve.