Getting into a car accident can be a very scary experience. Car crashes are never expected and can cause serious injuries to those involved as well as extensive damage to your vehicle. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent all car accidents so drivers should be prepared and know that to do after being in an accident on the road.

Whether or not the car accident was your fault, many drivers feel angry and even confused as to how the accident happened in the first place. Drivers often show many emotions after a crash, but it is important for everyone involved in a car accident to know what to do and what do say.

First and foremost, make sure no one is seriously injured. The police should also be called if the accident resulted in any injuries or damage to one or both vehicles. Many drivers get out of their vehicles and exchange insurance information. This is an important step to take but drivers need to be aware of what to say and what not to say after a car accident as it could impact insurance claims and even lead to civil lawsuits in the future. Drivers do need to answer any questions law enforcement asks them about the crash, but you don’t need to make any additional statements.

Drivers should not apologize or take responsibility for the crash. This could be held against you in court as well as by insurance companies who could deny your insurance claim. Drivers should be careful to not disclose too much information about any possible injuries or lack of injuries immediately after a crash. While you might feel perfectly fine immediately after a car accident or don’t want to make a big deal, some injuries like concussions, whiplash and back injuries don’t show symptoms until later and can cause serious long-term health issues.

There are many other steps drivers should take after getting into a car accident. Our article on preparing for an accident in Missouri discusses what to include in an accident kit, what information to gather at the scene of the crash and why it is important to understand you car insurance policy.