Auto accidents are stressful, chaotic, and often overwhelming. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to make mistakes that could hurt your chances of legal recovery for any injuries or damages. Knowing what to do—and, more importantly, what not to do—can help protect your legal rights and ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

Let’s walk you through five common mistakes people make after an auto accident and how to avoid them. These include not calling the police, admitting fault at the scene, failing to gather evidence, delaying medical attention, and talking to the other party’s insurance company. Let’s take a closer look.

1. Not Calling the Police

One of the most common mistakes people make after an accident is not calling the police, especially when the accident seems minor. You might think that as long as everyone’s okay and the damage is minimal, there’s no need to involve the authorities. However, this decision can come back to haunt you.

Why It’s a Mistake:

A police report is a vital piece of evidence. It provides an objective account of the accident, including details about the drivers, the scene, and often, the officer’s opinion on who was at fault. Without this official documentation, it can become your word against the other driver’s, which makes proving your case more difficult later on.

What to Do Instead:

Always call the police, even if the accident seems minor. The responding officer will create an official accident report, which can be invaluable when filing an insurance claim or taking legal action.

Related: Hit and Run Accidents

2. Admitting Fault at the Scene

After an accident, many people’s first instinct is to apologize, even if they’re not sure they caused the crash. While this might seem polite, it can seriously hurt your case if you admit fault, directly or indirectly, at the scene.

Why It’s a Mistake:

Saying things like “I didn’t see you” or “I’m sorry, it was my fault” can be used against you later. Even if you think you might have been partly to blame, there could be factors you aren’t aware of that shift responsibility to the other driver. Admitting fault prematurely can significantly reduce your chances of recovery and even lead to legal repercussions.

What to Do Instead:

Stick to the facts when talking to the other driver or the police. Describe what happened without assigning blame. Avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of fault. Let the investigation and evidence determine who was at fault.

3. Failing to Gather Evidence

Another common mistake people make is failing to collect evidence at the scene. In the immediate aftermath of a crash, emotions are running high, and you may be focused on getting medical attention or moving your car out of the way. However, failing to gather evidence can make it harder to prove your case later.

Why It’s a Mistake:

Evidence gathered at the scene is often the most compelling. Without photos, witness contact information, or a detailed description of the scene, it can become much more challenging to prove fault or get the full recovery you deserve. The condition of the vehicles, road hazards, weather conditions, and even skid marks can all disappear quickly, making it harder to recreate what happened.

What to Do Instead:

If you’re physically able, take pictures of the accident scene, including the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact information from witnesses and write down your notes about what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind. This information will be valuable when building your case.

4. Delaying Medical Attention

Many people, especially those who feel “fine” immediately after the accident, do not seek medical attention right away. Unfortunately, injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious in the days following an accident.

Why It’s a Mistake:

Delaying medical attention can worsen your injuries and hurt your chances of getting recovery. Insurance companies often argue that if you didn’t seek medical help right away, your injuries couldn’t have been that serious. They might even claim that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident at all.

What to Do Instead:

Even if you feel okay, see a doctor as soon as possible after an accident. A medical professional can assess you for hidden injuries and document your condition, which will be critical evidence in your claim. Follow up on any treatments or recommendations they provide as well.

Related: How to Choose a Doctor After an Injury

5. Talking to the Other Party’s Insurance Company

Shortly after an accident, you may receive a call from the other driver’s insurance company. While it might seem harmless to resolve the situation, talking to them without legal representation is a common mistake.

Why It’s a Mistake:

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to settle claims for as little money as possible, and they might use tactics to downplay the severity of the accident or your injuries. Anything you say during this conversation can be used against you, including seemingly innocent statements like “I’m feeling better now” or “It wasn’t that bad.” You might also be pressured into accepting a quick settlement far lower than you deserve.

What to Do Instead:

Politely decline to speak with the other party’s insurance company until you’ve consulted with your insurance provider or an attorney. If they request a statement, let them know you’ll have your attorney contact them. This helps protect your rights and ensures that you won’t unintentionally say anything that could damage your case.

Talk to the Team at Glassman & Zissimopulos

Navigating the aftermath of an auto accident can be complicated and stressful, but avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of a successful outcome.

By staying calm, informed, and proactive, you can protect your rights and build a strong case for recovery. If you’re unsure about the steps to take after an accident, don’t hesitate to consult with a personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process and help you avoid costly mistakes.

Call Glassman and Zissimopulos and our team of dedicated attorneys today. (352) 505-4515 or Toll-Free at (844) 787-2543. When you call, you will be able to speak with a lawyer. This is our commitment to you.