8 Things You Should Not Do After a Car Accident 

Car accidents can be traumatic experiences for all involved parties. The aftermath of a crash can be just as confusing and stressful as the accident itself. Therefore, it’s crucial to know what steps to take immediately after an accident to ensure your safety and the safety of others and also to protect your legal rights.

While it’s important to know what to do after getting into an accident, you also should know what not to do after an accident. We’ve compiled a list of the top eight things you should avoid doing after an accident.

#1. Don’t Drive Away From the Scene

Even if you don’t believe any harm has been done, you should never leave the scene of an accident, regardless of how minor it may seem. Even if you’re not at fault, staying and exchanging information with the other drivers is essential. It’s illegal to flee the scene, and you could be charged with a felony if anyone is injured or killed in the accident.

#2. Fail to Call the Police

If there are injuries or substantial damage, it’s essential to call the police. They will access the scene and take statements from the involved parties.

They will create an official report that could be used in future legal proceedings. If you fail to call the police, you could face legal consequences and insurance issues down the line.

#3. Don’t Admit Guilt

When panicking after an accident, many people will apologise and try to explain what happened. When you admit guilt, you are automatically assumed responsible for the accident.

Guilt is determined by law enforcement or in a court of law, so even if you believe the accident was your fault, do not admit guilt to others involved, witnesses, and especially the police. Let the process work itself out before you decide to admit to anything.

#4. Not Documenting the Scene

Even if it’s a minor fender bender, it’s important to document the scene of the accident.

If you can, take photos of the damage to the vehicles involved, the road, and the surrounding area. You should also write down details of the accident, such as the date, time, location, and weather conditions.

This could be valuable evidence in the event of a legal dispute. Failing to document the accident will make it much harder to receive a claim for the damages or injuries if the insurance company questions your involvement in the accident and finds that you were at fault.

#5. Fail to Exchange Information

It’s essential to exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. Some of the information you should collect after an accident includes:

• Name 
• Address
• Phone number
• Driver’s license number
• License plate numbers
• Name of auto insurance companies and policy numbers

If there are any witnesses to the accident, you should also get their information. Having more than just yourself attest to the events that transpired may be helpful later if the at-fault driver or their insurance company is uncooperative.

#6. Ignore Collision Damages

As mentioned above, even if your car has any extensive damage, there could be hidden damage. Without the proper inspection of an auto repair specialist, you may allow things to get worse without you knowing and being more costly in the long run.

A dent can be more than just cosmetic. For example, they can cause friction on a tire or lead to alignment issues. In addition, scratches and minor dents can cause rust over time, leading to more significant exterior problems.

#7. Not Contacting Your Insurance Company

Some people are nervous about calling their insurance company after a minor accident because it may increase their rate. Still, it’s essential to notify your insurance company of your accident, even if you choose not to file a claim.

Your insurance company can help you with the claims process and provide you with any necessary information and support you may need. And if you wait too long to notify your insurance company, it could impact your ability to file a claim.

#8. Not Seeking Medical Attention

You may not feel injured, but it’s essential to seek medical attention after a car accident. There are some injuries that may not show symptoms until hours or days later. Additionally, if you wait too long to seek medical attention, it could harm your case in the event of a personal injury claim.

Car Repair Garages Near You

Car accidents are stressful and something that everyone wants to avoid. But, unfortunately, they are bound to happen, so it’s essential to know what steps you should take and what to avoid.

Caversham Coachworks is here to help you after an accident. We take care of everything from insurance, crash, and car body repairs to dent and scratch repairs and many other services. We are the leading independent vehicle repair centre in Berkshire and Central Oxfordshire, with exceptional service and quality work.

We have extensive experience negotiating with insurance claims and want to get you back on the road in your own car as soon as possible. We have replacement cars available while your car is being repaired by our professionals. We’ll take care of the daunting paperwork, deliver your repaired vehicle to your door, and ensure that your premiums and no-claims bonus are unaffected.

Reach out today to speak with one of our experts or use our free and easy estimator tool.