Many drivers have never been involved in a car accident before, so it’s understandable that many have no idea of what to do following a collision. It’s understandable that some may be overcome with panic or confusion, especially if a head injury is involved.

So what you should not do after a car accident? Clearwater personal injury attorneys with the practice of Jeffrey W. Hensley, P.A. have compiled an overview of a few of the actions and statements that should be avoided at all costs.

A Look at What Not to Do Following a Car Accident in Clearwater

After a car accident, you should never, ever keep on driving. You must always stop and interact with the other driver, even if it’s just a small bump that only requires a quick interaction to confirm that there are no injuries and no damage.

Even if the driver is impaired, it is typically in the person’s best interest to stop. A hit and run may result in some very serious legal penalties; penalties that can far exceed the penalties for impaired driving.

Always stop and exchange information with the other driver, including your name, address, contact information, insurance information, and license plate number. If the other person flees, remain at the accident scene and contact police. Also, photograph the accident scene.

After a car accident, you should never admit fault in a statement to the other driver or to police. These statements can be used against you if the case goes to court and if you are found to be at-fault, this can impact the amount of compensation that you could be eligible to receive in a personal injury lawsuit.

Following an accident, you should never remain inside your car in a dangerous location if you have the physical ability to get out of the vehicle. If you can safely move your car off the road into a safer location, this is generally the best option. If this is not possible, your best option may be to exit the vehicle, get off the road and wait until the police arrive to help direct traffic around the accident site.

There are many cases where a careless driver has crashed into vehicles that were already stopped for a crash. For this reason, you should never stand in front of a damaged vehicle, behind a damaged vehicle or between the vehicles, as you could be pinned if the vehicles are struck. Exit the vehicle if you can, stand off to the side and remain alert.

If another person is seriously injured, you should avoid moving them unless there is an imminent risk additional injuries or fatality. If you must move another person, support the neck and head and try to limit movement. You may have an item in your car, such as a road atlas, that can be cupped around the back of the head and neck to help limit movement.

After an accident, you should never postpone seeking medical attention. Some injuries leave no external signs and you may not immediately realize you’re hurt because adrenaline has the ability to dull your sensations of pain.

If you’ve been injured in a Clearwater car accident, contact Florida personal injury attorney Jeffrey W. Hensley, P.A. to discuss your case in a confidential, no-cost consultation session. Call 727-781-3433.