What Are Common Mistakes People Make After a Car Accident?
Nashville is the capital city of Tennessee, located in the central part of the state along the Cumberland River. It is the largest city in Tennessee and known as "Music City" for its famous country music scene. Nashville covers a large area with many neighborhoods and busy roads, which can lead to heavy traffic and car accidents, especially during rush hours.
Nashville has many cars on its roads, especially during rush hour, which causes traffic to slow down. This stop-and-go traffic leads to more car accidents because drivers may not expect sudden stops. The city's growing population and busy highways make traffic problems worse, increasing the risk of crashes in the area.
For anyone navigating a car accident in Nashville, having a guide through these tricky steps makes all the difference. If you need professional help, get the best car accident attorney in Nashville on your side. They’ll fight for your rights, and help you avoid common pitfalls.
Common Mistakes After a Car Accident
Here’s a very long list of mistakes people usually make after car accidents:
Not Calling 911 or the Police: Even if it seems minor, calling the police is crucial. Nashville streets can get busy, from 37201 to 37250, and having an official report is your safety net.
Not Moving to the Side of the Road: If no one is seriously hurt, move your car to the side. Nashville traffic doesn’t wait, and a minor collision in the middle of the road can quickly become a pile-up. It’s safer for you and other drivers.
Not Exchanging Information: Even if it’s just a fender-bender, swap information. Names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details. Sometimes injuries like whiplash show up days later, and vehicle damage isn’t always obvious. Skipping this step can cost you a lot.
Saying the Wrong Thing: A simple "I'm sorry" can look like admitting fault. Avoid apologizing or admitting guilt. Insurance companies and attorneys note every word.
Avoiding or Delaying Medical Attention: Adrenaline can hide injuries. You might feel fine at first, but soreness or headaches can emerge later. Seeing a doctor immediately documents your injuries and protects your claim.
Not Calling Your Insurance Company: Report the accident quickly. Don’t speculate on fault. Let your insurance handle the investigation. The sooner you report, the smoother the process will be.
Waiting Too Long to File a Claim: Even if Tennessee allows time for filing, delays can hurt your case. Evidence fades, memories dim, and insurance companies love it when people procrastinate.
Not Using Your Car Insurance for Medical Bills: Your auto insurance covers medical bills under PIP benefits. Use it to avoid paying out of pocket. Health insurance can cover deductibles, but your car insurance should be primary.
Not Reviewing the Police Report: Mistakes happen. Officers write dozens of reports daily. A small error can affect your claim. Review and correct them as soon as possible.
Giving a Recorded Statement Without Guidance: Insurance companies record statements to limit their liability. Tell the truth, yes, but avoid exaggerating. Even small inconsistencies can be used against you. Your attorney should guide this.
Signing a Release Too Soon: Never sign a release until you’ve consulted a lawyer. Once you sign, you may give up rights to future compensation. Legal guidance is key.
Key Takeaway
A police report creates an official record of the crash and helps prove fault.
Saying sorry or admitting blame can hurt your legal case.
Taking photos, collecting witness info, and documenting the scene are essential.
Seek medical care quickly, as delayed treatment can weaken injury claims.
Always exchange contact and insurance details with the other driver.