Motor vehicle accidents are common in Tennessee. The state had more than 1,300 fatalities from motor vehicle accidents in 2022, according to The National Road Safety Foundation. To make the aftermath easier, there are common mistakes to avoid following a car crash.
Failing to get medical attention
Motor vehicle accidents don’t always cause noticeable injuries. And the shock of being in an accident might prevent your brain from registering the pain. However, after you calm down, you might realize you’re injured. Consider visiting the emergency room after the accident, even if you don’t feel that you need to.
Fleeing the scene of the accident
Fleeing the scene of a motor vehicle accident is a crime in Tennessee. If someone is injured or killed, you’re required to provide your name, address and driver’s license to the authorities. Failing to do so could lead to serious legal consequences.
Failing to call the police
This mistake could hurt if a legal issue arises after the accident. You could benefit from having an official police report following the accident. The report is an official and legal record of the incident. In the event you decide to file a personal injury claim, that report becomes invaluable.
Waiting too long to file a claim
The statute of limitations for a personal injury claim in Tennessee is one year. That means you have one year from the time of the accident to file a claim against the other driver.
There are some exceptions to this rule, depending on the circumstances of your case. But generally, failing to make your claim within the time limit will hurt your ability to receive compensation.
A motor vehicle accident is often a traumatic situation. It’s easy to understand that you might not think clearly immediately following the incident. However, trying your best to avoid common mistakes can help you afterward.