Tips for Dealing with the Other Driver After a Wreck

Finding yourself in a wreck is a traumatic experience, and dealing with its aftermath can feel particularly overwhelming. The wrong step in this scenario can negatively affect your claim’s value, which wouldn’t be ideal after another driver damages your health and jeopardizes your financial stability. 

Because of this, it’s always recommended to speak with an accident lawyer after a collision. In the moments following the impact, you’ll have to deal with the other driver. Keep these tips in mind to protect your right to compensation. 

Control Your Emotions

It’s normal to be upset about what happened, but acting impulsively or aggressively blaming the other driver can cause matters to escalate quickly, making everything more difficult to resolve. It would be wise to take a deep breath and do your best to remain calm and composed while approaching the negligent party.

Remember that this situation will be solved through legal means, so there’s no need to take it into your own hands while you’re still injured and confused. 

Don’t Apologize

Anything you say after an accident can be used as evidence against you in court. While apologizing can be seen as a polite way to express concern about the other driver, it could also be a determining factor for your case. It can be interpreted as an admission of fault. This is one of the many reasons why you should avoid making statements after a car accident. 

It’s also common for the at-fault party to blame you for what happened, and apologizing will only give more value to their version of the story. That version can be used by the insurance company to dismiss your claim or diminish its value. 

Collect Information

Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. This step is vital to your claim’s success, as it allows you or your attorney to quickly get in touch with all parties involved and discuss your compensation. 

You’ll also be ready when adjusters reach out to you with their initial offer, which you should never accept without speaking to a lawyer first. 

Call the Police

Even if you approach the other driver with the best intentions while being polite, there’s no guarantee they’ll do the same, especially if they were drinking before getting behind the wheel. Getting the police involved will not only protect you from unpredictable behavior but will also help you gather additional evidence for your case. 

Officers will compile a report that contains important information about the accident, like an accurate description of the vehicles and a sketch or a diagram that illustrates the dynamics of the impact. This document is extremely important when you’re negotiating with the insurance company. 

Let a Car Accident Attorney Fight for Your Compensation

A car accident can turn your life upside down and force you to deal with unexpected consequences that might significantly impact your happiness. Carefully dealing with the other driver is only one of the many steps you’ll have to take if you want to be compensated. Fortunately, we can provide the legal representation you need to focus on your recovery. 

Contact Conway, Pauley & Johnson P.C. now to speak with qualified lawyers that will work with your best interests in mind. You can schedule your free case evaluation by calling 402-462-5187 or filling out the contact form below.