What to Do If You’re Involved in Auto Accidents | Charlottesville Car Crash Attorneys
Critical things to keep in mind after a crash. Contact us for a FREE 90 minute consultation.
Most Americans will experience at least one car accident in their lifetime, and many will have more than one. Despite the alarming frequency, people all too often react impulsively and incorrectly after a car accident. Yvonne Griffin at Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. offers helpful tips to keep in mind if you have been involved in a car crash.
Do not leave the scene of an accident
Virginia, like most other states, prohibits people from leaving the scene of a car accident. Virginia Code §46.2-894 holds that a driver of any vehicle must stop in an accident where:
|
|
If you have been involved in a crash under those circumstances, you are required to report your name and relevant information to the state police and render any assistance necessary to the other driver. Failure to do so can be a Class 5 felony.
Call an ambulance and the police if another person is injured
Many people do not realize they can be held criminally and civilly liable if they do not assist the victim of a personal injury in a car accident that they were responsible for. Virginia Code §46.2-895 requires a passenger or any other person over the age of 16 to contact the state police and try to aid accident victims if a driver of the vehicle fails to do so. Failure to do so can also be a felony.
Do not apologize for an accident or make any statements about its cause
A driver’s instinct after an accident is to express sympathy or discuss how the collision happened. However, this natural reaction can lead you to admit liability, even if you do not realize you’re doing so. An apology, even something as simple as “I’m sorry,” can be considered an expression of responsibility. If possible, avoid making any statements regarding the cause of an accident.
Do not accept cash or other offers from another driver
It is common for other drivers to try to offer someone cash or make promises about compensation to prevent you from suing them. If you accept, you may lose your right to future compensation or legal recovery. Even if the amount offered does not cover your actual expenses, you may have forfeited your ability to recover the real costs in court.
Call our law office if you’ve been involved in an auto accident
Collecting all available evidence after a collision can be critical to the success of a lawsuit. If you have been involved in a car accident, call Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. immediately to preserve your chances for successful recovery. Contact us at 434-973-7474 or online.
