If you’ve ever been involved in a car accident, you know the moment can be overwhelming. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a more serious collision, it’s easy to make mistakes in the aftermath that could affect your health, your case, and your financial recovery. In this vlog, we’ll break down some critical “don’ts” and “do’s” after an accident to ensure you’re fully protected and ready for the next steps.

One of the most common mistakes people make after a car accident is assuming that they’re not injured. You may feel fine initially, but it’s important to remember that shock can mask pain, and some injuries may not become evident until hours, days, or even weeks later. The adrenaline from the accident can also make you feel okay in the moment, but injuries like whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries may show up later.

Even if you feel fine, DO NOT tell the other driver, the police, or your insurance company that you’re not injured unless you’re absolutely certain. If you aren’t sure, just let them know you’re still processing the accident and that you’re waiting to see how things develop. It’s important to give yourself time to assess your physical condition, so don’t rush to declare you’re injury-free.

Another big mistake many people make is admitting fault after the accident. Even if you think you might have been partially responsible for the incident, DO NOT admit fault at the scene, to the other driver, or to your insurance company. Fault is a legal matter, and it’s important to talk to a lawyer before making any statements about who was responsible for the accident.

Admitting fault prematurely could have serious consequences for your case. Even if you think you were partially at fault, you need to speak with an attorney who can properly evaluate the situation and guide you on how to proceed. Your lawyer will help ensure that your rights are protected and that you’re not unnecessarily taking on responsibility for an accident that wasn’t entirely your fault.

After a car accident, it’s natural to want to get back to your daily routine, but DO NOT rush back into your day without addressing your health. Even if you feel like you have other obligations to attend to, your health should be your number one priority. If an ambulance is offered or if you feel any discomfort or pain, DO NOT hesitate to seek medical attention.

You might be worried about the costs associated with medical care, but don’t let that be your primary concern. The person responsible for the accident or their insurance company should cover those costs. Focusing on your recovery is the most important thing, so take the time you need to heal. And don’t forget to reach out to a lawyer for help with any legal or insurance-related matters. You shouldn’t be left to navigate the aftermath of the accident alone.

Now that you know what to avoid, let’s talk about what you should be doing after an accident.

1. Take Photos – Get plenty of pictures of the accident scene, damage to both vehicles, and any visible injuries you may have sustained. Close-up shots and wider shots of the vehicles and scene can be extremely helpful when it comes time to make a claim.
2. Get Medical Attention – Whether it’s through an ambulance, a visit to urgent care, or the emergency room, be sure to get checked out. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
3. Consult with a Lawyer – The sooner you reach out to a lawyer, the better. They can help guide you on what to say (and not say) to your insurance company and provide you with valuable advice on how to move forward with your case.

If you’ve been in a car accident and need help with personal injury or medical malpractice, Brian Findley at Findley Law is here to help. With years of experience, we’ll guide you through the entire process, from dealing with insurance companies to ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 619-860-1712 or visit our office at 1620 Fifth Avenue, Suite 625, San Diego, CA 92101 for a consultation.