A car accident is a jarring event that often attracts a large number of bystanders and emergency personnel. While it may be tempting to tweet or post on Facebook about the event, or to immediately apologize to the other driver, it is best to be very careful about what is said directly after the incident.
Do Not Apologize
Saying “sorry” is a reflex for most people when they have caused inconvenience to another individual. It is a bad idea after a car accident because all the facts are not yet clear, and an apology may complicate the case by making a person seem more at fault than they were.
Show Concern
Right after an accident, the most important thing is to determine if everyone involved is all right. Instead of apologizing or making accusations, ask the other driver how they are doing, check for injuries and exchange information. Showing concern is a factor that may be very helpful later on. This is also a good time to take pictures of the accident scene. Afterward, if possible, one or both vehicles should be moved off the road.
Cooperate with the Police
When police officers arrive at the scene of an accident, they will gather information and listen to each side of the story. Generally, the person who is thought to be at fault will be interviewed first, and it is crucial to not interrupt, accuse or otherwise interfere with this process. Be polite and just give the facts. Keep a copy of the report for the insurance adjuster. This will be helpful later on when memories of the accident have faded.
Stay Off Social Media
Everyone has a Facebook account these days, and after an accident, it seems perfectly natural to tell everyone about it. Social media posts can come back to haunt a person later, especially in regard to injuries or if one driver reached out to the other. The most sensible approach is to not discuss the incident on the internet at all.
While following the tips above will be helpful after an accident, a person should hire an experienced attorney to ensure the best possible outcome. Ohio Accident Attorneys can get you in contact with an experienced attorney in your area that can discuss your legal options. Contact us today at (888) 906-4943 for a free consultation.