Common Mistakes People Make After a Car Accident

Cincinnati, with its mix of dense urban streets, winding hills, and busy highways like I-71 and I-75, sees its fair share of collisions. From rush-hour pileups near downtown to slick road accidents in the suburbs, the city’s traffic layout poses unique challenges for drivers.

In Cincinnati, car accident claims are governed by Ohio’s comparative fault rules. If you’re found partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced in proportion to your share of the blame. On top of that, Ohio imposes a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims, meaning you have a limited time to take legal action.

To protect your rights and avoid missteps, it’s wise to consult a Cincinnati car accident lawyer as soon as possible. They can help you understand the local laws, handle negotiations with insurance companies, and make sure you don’t jeopardize your claim.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most frequent mistakes people make after a car accident, from failing to get proper medical attention to not preserving critical evidence. If you’ve been involved in a car accident, this information is crucial for protecting your rights and avoiding unnecessary setbacks.

Costly Errors to Avoid After a Car Accident

Even a minor car accident can feel like a major crisis. Unfortunately, what you do, or don’t do, in the minutes, hours, and days after a crash can affect your ability to recover compensation. Here are some of the most common mistakes drivers make after a collision, along with tips on how to avoid them.

Leaving the Scene Too Soon

Ohio law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop and stay at the scene. Under Ohio Revised Code § 4549.02, leaving without exchanging information or waiting for authorities can result in criminal charges, even if the accident was minor. Some drivers panic and drive away, which can turn a simple insurance claim into a hit-and-run investigation.

Always remain at the scene, check for injuries, and call the police if there’s significant damage or anyone is hurt.

Failing to Call the Police

In Ohio, you’re not legally required to call the police if the damage is minor and no one is injured. However, failing to file a police report can hurt your case later. Insurance companies often rely on official accident reports to verify claims. Without one, you may face disputes over what happened.

Even if the other driver asks you not to involve the police, it’s safer to make the call and get a report on record.

Admitting Fault

Many people instinctively apologize after an accident, even if they weren’t to blame. Statements like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault” can be used against you when determining liability.

Since Ohio follows a modified comparative fault system (§ 2315.33), your damages are reduced by your percentage of fault, and if you’re found more than 50% responsible, you can’t recover anything. Stick to the facts when speaking with police, the other driver, or insurers, and avoid speculating about who caused the crash.

Not Gathering Evidence

After an accident, it’s easy to forget to document the scene. But without evidence, it becomes much harder to prove your side of the story.

Make sure to collect:

• Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and road conditions
• Contact and insurance information from the other driver
• Names and phone numbers of any witnesses
• A copy of the police report, when available

The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be.

Delaying Medical Attention

Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Many victims skip seeing a doctor because they “feel fine,” only to experience pain days later.

Delaying medical care can hurt both your health and your claim. Insurance adjusters may argue your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the accident. It’s best to get checked out as soon as possible and follow all medical advice.

Talking Too Freely to Insurance Adjusters

After an accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly. They might seem friendly, but their goal is often to minimize the payout. Some victims unknowingly provide recorded statements that harm their case or accept low settlement offers before fully understanding the extent of their damages.

You’re not required to give detailed statements or accept any offers right away. It’s better to gather all the facts and know your rights before negotiating.

Ignoring Deadlines

In Ohio, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit under Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10. Missing this deadline can bar you from recovering any compensation.

Keep track of important dates and act promptly to preserve your claim.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be confusing, especially when emotions are high. By understanding Ohio’s laws and avoiding these common mistakes, you can protect your rights and give yourself the best chance of recovering the compensation you deserve.