5 things you should not do after a car crash

A car accident can be a highly stressful event. It is important, however, for anyone involved in a traffic collision to handle the situation calmly and deliberately. There are numerous things you should do at the scene and even more numerous things you shouldn’t do. Here are some things to consider even before you confront other drivers or witnesses.

Remain Silent

Under no circumstances should you talk to the police at the scene. Identify yourself to the minimum level required by law and provide what documents are required by law. Otherwise, keep your mouth shut. An accident will present you with potential civil and criminal liability. Your attorney will gladly explain why remaining silent is the best option.

Don’t Argue

Depending on your state, you may be required to provide insurance information to other involved drivers. Other than that, you should refrain from answering questions or getting into verbal disputes at the accident scene. You will resolve nothing at the roadside. Your goal is to gather as much information as you can and retreat to a quiet place where you can think and plan your next step.

Attend Your Vehicle

Under no circumstances should you leave your car unlocked or unattended. Make sure your trunk is closed and locked. Make sure, to the greatest extent possible, your windows are up and your doors are closed and locked. Hold on to your keys. Surrender possession of your vehicle to no person without some kind of written record.

Offer no Consent

Do not consent to any search of your person or property at the accident scene. Unless the police present you with a warrant you have the legal right to be secure in your person and property against unreasonable searches. If asked, decline. If confronted, ask to see a warrant, then ask for an attorney. You are not required to surrender your privacy or your property unless you are served with a warrant.

Gather Evidence

You shouldn’t leave the scene of a traffic collision until you have gathered as much evidence on your own as possible. Your attorney will be thankful later when they have something to defend you with in the event the accident winds up in a legal dispute. Get names, badge numbers and license plates as quickly as possible.

As always in any legal dispute, and especially in a vehicle accident, you should consult with qualified attorneys and a law firm like Reyna Law Firm at your earliest convenience.

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