A car crash can leave you stunned. Your heart races, your hands shake, and your thoughts scatter. In that state, people often make decisions that cause bigger problems later. The choices you make in those first minutes matter for your health, your finances, and your future.
Car Accidents in Bethlehem
Bethlehem, a historic city in Pennsylvania, has its fair share of busy intersections and fast-moving traffic. Crashes can happen anywhere – on Stefko Boulevard, Route 378, or right outside a quiet home. When they do, victims often need guidance from Bethlehem car accident lawyers to avoid mistakes that can cost them dearly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Crash
Here are the common mistakes to avoid after a car crash.
Walking Away Too Soon
Leaving the scene is never the right move. Even if the damage looks small, you need to stay put. Police need to file a report, and both drivers must share details. Driving away makes it a hit-and-run. That means criminal charges, fines, and more stress. Staying is always safer for you.
Skipping Medical Care
Many people say, “I feel fine,” and go home. That’s dangerous. Adrenaline hides pain, so you may not notice an injury until later. A sore neck or pounding headache might show up hours after the crash.
Seeing a doctor right away protects your health. It also creates records that prove your injuries came from the crash. Note that more than 2 million people visit emergency rooms every year because of crash injuries. Getting checked could save you from long-term harm.
Saying Too Much At the Scene
It’s natural to want to say “I’m sorry.” But those words can be twisted into an admission of fault. You may not even know who caused the crash yet.
Stick to the basics when talking to the police or the other driver. Share your ID, insurance, and registration. Leave the rest for investigators and insurers to figure out later.
Forgetting to Gather Evidence
Details vanish quickly after a crash. Skid marks fade, cars get moved, and witnesses leave. If you don’t collect evidence right away, it may be gone forever.
Here’s what to gather before leaving:
- Photos of all vehicles and damage
- Pictures of the road, signs, and weather conditions
- Names and numbers of witnesses
- The other driver’s insurance and plate number
Waiting Too Long to Call Your Insurance Company
It’s more difficult if you put off calling your insurer. A lot of policies call for prompt reporting. Waiting can delay repairs or lead to disagreements over coverage.
Your insurance agency must know, even if you believe the other driver’s insurance should cover the cost. Bigger problems later are avoided with a simple phone call.
Handling it All Alone
It can backfire to try to handle everything yourself. Insurance companies frequently promote quick settlements that don’t pay for lost income or medical expenses. You might consent to something that will cause you problems down the road if no one is standing up for your rights.
Final Thoughts
The aftermath of a collision is a stressful and perplexing time. Errors like leaving too quickly, avoiding the doctor, or taking responsibility only make matters worse. Little actions like snapping pictures, reporting immediately, and getting legal counsel have a big impact.
Key Takeaways:
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
- Remain at the scene until the police have finished
- Refuse to apologize or take responsibility
- Gather the contact details of witnesses, notes, and photographs
- Promptly notify your insurer
- Get legal advice before signing any contracts
