Mistakes to Avoid Making After Being in a Car Accident

 Posted on January 25, 2026 in Car Accident

Car accidents are common, which is why questions about what to do in the aftermath come up often. According to the most recent summaries from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 6 million car accidents were reported each year over the past few years. With accidents happening this frequently, knowing what mistakes to avoid afterward can help protect both your health and your ability to recover losses.

As of 2026, Colorado law still allows injured drivers to seek compensation when another party is at fault. However, what you do after a crash can affect how an insurance claim is handled. If you were involved in a collision, a Fort Collins, CO car accident lawyer can help you understand how to protect yourself and move forward.

Why Can Mistakes After a Car Accident Cause Problems in Colorado?

Insurance companies and investigators look closely at what happens after a crash. They review timelines, medical records, and statements to decide how a claim should be handled.

Common post-accident mistakes can:

• Create doubts about how serious your injuries are.

• Make it harder to connect injuries to the crash.

• Reduce the value of an insurance claim.

• Delay the claims process.

Avoiding these issues early helps keep the focus on your recovery.

Is Leaving the Scene of an Accident Too Soon a Mistake in Colorado?

Even if an accident seems minor, leaving too quickly can cause problems later. According to Colo. Rev. Stat. § 42-4-1603, drivers involved in a crash must remain at the scene, exchange information, and provide reasonable assistance if someone is injured.

Under Colo. Rev. Stat. § 42-4-1601, drivers must stop and stay at the scene of an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage. Leaving before these steps are completed can lead to missing details, confusion about what happened, and potential legal consequences.

Staying at the scene helps ensure accurate reporting and protects everyone involved.

Is Waiting To Get Medical Care After a Crash a Mistake?

Some injuries, especially neck, back, or head injuries, may not cause pain right away. Waiting to see a doctor can allow symptoms to worsen. Delays in treatment may also give insurance companies a reason to question whether your injuries were caused by the accident.

Why Should You Avoid Admitting Fault at the Scene of an Accident?

It’s natural to apologize out of stress or habit, even when you did nothing wrong. Let police officers and insurance investigators determine what happened based on evidence, not quick comments made during a stressful moment.

Do You Have To Document Anything After a Car Accident in Colorado?

You should document as much as possible after a car crash. Accident scenes can change quickly. Vehicles may be moved, debris cleared, and witnesses may leave.

If it is safe to collect, helpful documentation includes:

• Photos of vehicle damage and license plates

• Pictures of the road, traffic signs, and weather conditions

• Contact information for witnesses

• Notes about what you remember happening

This information can be valuable later if questions come up.

Can Talking to the Insurance Company Too Early Hurt Your Car Accident Claim in Colorado?

Insurance adjusters often reach out soon after a crash and may ask for a recorded statement. You are not required to give one immediately.

Speaking before you understand the full extent of your injuries can lead to incomplete or unclear information being used later. When you hire an experienced car accident attorney, they speak to the insurer for you, protecting you from issues that might arise.

Can You Post on Social Media After a Car Accident?

It is often best to avoid posting about the accident or your recovery until your claim is resolved. Social media posts can be misunderstood or taken out of context. Photos or comments may be used to suggest that injuries are not serious.

Schedule Your Free Consultation With Our Larimer County, CO Car Accident Attorney

Car accidents can leave people dealing with injuries, stress, and uncertainty about what comes next. Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. helps clients understand their options and avoid common mistakes after a crash. Attorney Hoggatt is a member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association and the Workers' Compensation Education Association, reflecting a strong commitment to injury law and continued education.

If you were injured in a car accident, contact a Fort Collins, CO car accident lawyer. Call 970-225-2190 to schedule your free consultation and learn how to protect your rights. Se habla Español.