No one starts the day thinking that they will get into a car accident, but when it happens to you, it’s a stressful experience, no matter how minor or severe. In the heat of the moment, it’s easy to make mistakes that could impact your insurance claim, legal rights, and even your health. But remember that knowing what not to do after a car accident is just as important as knowing the right steps. Our car accident lawyers in Edmonton, Calgary and Red Deer are here to guide you through common missteps to avoid and best practices to follow to protect yourself after a collision.
What Not to Do After a Car Accident
When emotions are high after a car accident in Alberta, the likelihood that you feel like an expert in the moment is low. Feelings of overwhelm are normal, but everything in the in-between is crucial. Keeping your head and avoiding the most common mistakes can mean the difference between having a strong case and protecting your rights, your health, and the result of your claim.
1. Leaving the Scene
Even if the accident seems minor, never leave without exchanging information or reporting it. In Alberta, failing to remain at the scene can result in legal consequences. Staying does not mean admitting fault – it simply ensures proper documentation.
2. Forgetting to Call 911
If there are injuries or significant damage, calling 911 should be your first instinct. Even if everyone seems fine, a police report can be valuable for insurance claims and legal matters. Officers can also help determine fault for the car accident, which may be necessary if a dispute arises later.
3. Failing to Document the Accident
Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and other relevant details. Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle registration. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
4. Admitting Fault
Even if you believe you contributed to the accident, never lead with, “It was my fault.” Stick to the facts when speaking to police, insurance companies, and other drivers at the scene. Determining fault is a legal and insurance matter, and an admission could be used against you.
5. Speaking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Guidance
Insurance companies aim to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. Anything you say can be used to minimize your settlement. Consulting an Alberta car accident lawyer before making a statement can help protect your interests.
6. Leaving Your Car in Traffic
If your vehicle is drivable and it’s safe to do so, move it out of traffic to avoid further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
7. Accepting an Offer from a Tow Truck Driver to Take Your Car Elsewhere
Some tow truck operators may try to take your vehicle to an unauthorized location, leading to unexpected fees. Even if the offer seems reasonable, leave the vehicle at the scene until the police have given directions. Ensure your car is towed to a trusted repair shop or an insurance-approved location.
What are the Warning Signs of Whiplash After a Car Accident?
Just because you feel okay in the immediate aftermath of your car accident, don’t ignore your physical health. Whiplash is one of the most common injuries following a car accident, but symptoms don’t always appear immediately after an accident. The severity of whiplash depends on the force of impact, and even a minor accident can result in long-term pain if untreated. Watch for the following signs in the hours or days after a collision:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Shoulder pain
- Lower back pain
- Dizziness or headaches
- Pain or numbness in the arms or hands
Don’t ignore the physical toll of a car accident—what feels minor now could turn into chronic pain later. Seeking medical attention immediately is crucial to protecting your health and your claim. If you’re dealing with whiplash injuries from a car accident and aren’t sure if it is worth mentioning in your case as the non-at-fault driver, speaking with a car accident injury lawyer in Edmonton can help you understand your rights and the compensation you are entitled to.
What You Should Do After Getting in a Car Accident
Now that you know what not to do, it’s time to focus on the right steps that you should take. Acting quickly and correctly after a car accident can make all the difference in protecting your health and claim. Let’s look at what you should do to safeguard yourself moving forward.
1. Check for Injuries and Call 911
Ensure you and any passengers are safe, and note any injuries you can see. If anyone is injured, call for emergency assistance immediately. Take note of your location, how many other vehicles were involved, and what injuries you or your passengers have suffered.
2. Move to Safety
Once you have taken care of yourself and your passengers, it’s time to deal with the vehicle. If your car is still driveable and is creating a hazard in traffic, safely move it to the side of the road to reduce the risk of further collisions. Turn on your hazard lights immediately if they are still functional to alert the other drivers and signal that you’re dealing with an emergency.
3. Gather Information
Exchange details with the other driver, including:
- Name and contact details
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance provider and policy number
- Vehicle make, model, and plate number
4. Take Photos and Notes
Document damage to all vehicles, road conditions, weather, and visible injuries. Don’t forget to write down the accident’s time, location, and circumstances. The more detailed the notes, the easier it is to keep track of the facts and not depend as heavily on memory.
5. Obtain a Police Report
If the combined property (vehicle) damage is more than $2000 in Alberta, your vehicle must be taken to a Collision Reporting Centre for a damage sticker before repairs can begin. All collisions that result in injuries must be reported to a Collision Reporting Centre, and if the police instruct you to report the collision, you must do so. This is a legal requirement, and failing to comply may affect your insurance claim, and result in a fine.
6. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash, may take hours or days to appear. Your doctor will create a medical report for your claim documentation that your personal injury lawyer in Alberta reviews.
7. Contact a Car Accident Lawyer Near You
A car accident lawyer can help ensure you get fair compensation, navigate the legal process, and handle insurance negotiations on your behalf. Braithwaite Boyle is committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
What Can a Car Accident Lawyer from Braithwaite Boyle Do For My Case
An injury lawyer for car accident cases can be a valuable asset when handling insurance claims and potential lawsuits. If you were not at fault in the car accident, our team of car accident injury lawyers in Edmonton can help through:
- Claim Guidance: We help you understand your rights and options.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies: Our team ensures you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
- Legal Representation: If your case goes to court, we will advocate for you every step of the way.
- Evidence Review: We analyze police reports, witness statements, and medical records to strengthen your case.
Whether your accident was minor or severe, having legal representation can significantly affect the outcome of your claim. Our team at Braithwaite Boyle is dedicated to helping you recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
Get the Legal Support You Need After a Car Accident
A car accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Braithwaite Boyle is here to provide experienced legal guidance and fight for your rights. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact us today for a free injury claim consultation.