3 Things You Should Never Do Immediately After an Accident

Once you have been in an accident, you may be confused on what you should do next. It is important to stay calm and make sure your passengers are not injured. By following these few crucial steps, you can prevent any serious legal issues against you.

Leave the Scene

If you are in a minor accident, you may believe that it is fair to drive away without checking the exterior damage of your car or checking on the other driver. This belief is false! You should never leave the scene of an accident without pulling over and checking on the other driver.

Most people who leave the scene of an accident have no insurance, but this does not give them the right to leave. When you leave an accident, it is considered a hit-and-run, which could land you with serious legal charges. Also, if the driver of the other vehicle is seriously injured, you can be charged with large legal fines and possible jail time.

Forget to Call 911

Many people want to avoid calling the police to avoid having the accident on record. Though you and the other driver may agree not to contact the police, you are putting your trust in the other driver that they will keep their word.

To be safe, it is best to call 911 to have the accident on record so you have documentation that the accident happened. Without the accident on record, the other driver may give you expired or fake insurance which would leave you paying for all the damage expenses to your vehicle.

Avoid Exchanging Proper Documentation with the Other Driver

Once you have stayed at the scene and called 911, you must remember to exchange information with the other driver. You should give them your full name, phone number, home address, insurance and policy number, and your license plate number.

It is also wise to use your smart phone to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles and the exact location of where the accident occurred. Also, write down the time and address where the accident happened. This will help with any future claims that may be made.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car crash or truck accident and are in need of an accident attorney in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Naples, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Gainesville, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, Ft. Myers or any other city in Florida –remember after 911, call 411! 1-800-411-PAIN can put you in touch with an experienced, aggressive network attorney who will fight for your rights and get the maximum compensation you deserve. Don’t forget to follow 411 PAIN on Twitter (@411PAIN), keep up with the conversation at #411PAIN and check out the 411 PAIN event gallery 411painevents.com!