It's no secret that an auto accident can have a profound impact on a person's life, affecting everything from their health and finances to their abilities to work and lead a life free of pain and stress. For these reasons, it’s essential that all motorists know the proper steps to take after being involved in a car accident, and part of knowing what to do is knowing what not to do. Here’s what you should avoid after an auto accident.

Admit Fault

Never, under any circumstances, admit fault in the aftermath of a car accident—even if you are certain you caused the crash. Not all auto accidents have clearly defined liability, and in some cases, both parties could be found to have some share of the responsibility. This won't be known until an investigation has occurred, and in the immediate wake of a collision, no such investigation has yet taken place. To protect yourself and any legal claim you might have, refrain from even discussing the issue of fault.

Speak to the Other Party's Lawyer or Insurance Company

The attorney representing the other party will want to do everything possible to discourage you from filing a lawsuit, and the other party's insurance company will go to great lengths to get you to settle any legal claim. They might try to get you to admit to something that never happened, or they might twist your words to get the results they need. Politely decline any conversation with the other driver's lawyer or insurer until you've secured legal counsel of your own.

Refuse to Call the Police

In certain accident situations, one or more parties may not want to call the police. They might want to handle the crash and any associated costs strictly between the parties involved, without the "interference" of law enforcement. Such interference is necessary, however; police will assemble a report that puts together a neutral, third-party chronicle of the accident. That report could be a strong case in your favor should you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit. Also, you should always get checked out by a medical professional following an accident; their records could help you in an insurance- or legal-related matter stemming from the incident.

An attorney knows how to make the law work for you, and they will take care of all of the paperwork, communication, and negotiations to get you the necessary compensation and legal protection. Carey & Hamner, P.C., serves the Enterprise, Dothan, and Ozark areas of Alabama in a number of accident and injury matters, including car crashes, Social Security disability cases, and workers' compensation claims. Call (855) 435-4797 or visit their website to schedule a free consultation.