Harlene Labrum | August 6, 2025 | Car Accidents
8 Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Car Crash in Nashville, TN
Car accidents are sudden, stressful, and often chaotic. In the aftermath, it’s easy to make decisions driven by confusion, shock, or adrenaline. Unfortunately, these missteps can significantly hurt your chances of receiving full and fair compensation for your injuries or property damage from a car crash in Nashville.
Whether you’re dealing with serious physical injuries or what seems like a minor fender-bender, the choices you make immediately after the crash matter greatly, both legally and financially. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common mistakes people make after a car accident in Nashville and how to avoid them to protect your rights.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car crash in Nashville, call our Nashville car accident lawyers today.
Leaving the Scene Too Quickly
One of the most critical mistakes you can make after a car crash in Nashville is leaving the scene too soon. Unless you’re being transported to the hospital for emergency treatment, you must stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives. Leaving prematurely can result in criminal charges, especially if someone is injured or there’s significant property damage.
Additionally, this is your only opportunity to gather evidence from the scene, including photos, witness statements, and details about the other driver. Leaving too quickly could mean losing vital information that could support your injury claim.
Failing to Call the Police
Even if the crash seems minor or no one appears to be injured, always call the police or the Tennessee Highway Patrol at *THP (*847). A police report provides an official record of the accident and is often crucial when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.
The report typically includes:
- Statements from both drivers
- Witness information
- Officer observations
- Initial assessments of fault
Don’t fall for common myths like, “We don’t need the police if the damage is small.” Without a report, it’s your word against the other driver’s, and that can severely weaken your case. Tennessee
Not Getting Immediate Medical Attention
Many injuries from car accidents (like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma) don’t show symptoms right away. Waiting days or even hours to seek medical attention can be a major mistake.
Delayed treatment not only puts your health at risk but also gives insurance adjusters ammunition to argue that your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the crash. Always get checked out by a medical professional, even if you feel fine immediately after the accident.
Admitting Fault or Apologizing
It’s human nature to say “I’m sorry,” especially in stressful or emotional situations. But in a car accident context, even a simple apology can be misinterpreted as an admission of fault.
It’s best to limit your conversation with the other driver. Exchange insurance and contact information, but leave any discussion of the accident’s cause to the police and your attorney. Let the investigation determine who is at fault.
Failing to Document the Scene
Evidence collected at the crash site can make or break your case. Before vehicles are moved, take time to photograph everything:
- Damage to all vehicles
- Skid marks, debris, or road hazards
- Traffic signs or signals
- Injuries
Also, get contact information from any witnesses and write down your own version of events while it’s still fresh in your mind. This scene documentation can later serve as key support for your insurance claim or lawsuit for a car crash in Nashville.
Talking to the Insurance Company Without Legal Advice
Soon after the accident, you’ll likely get a call from the insurance adjuster, either from your own provider or the at-fault driver’s insurer. While they may seem helpful, their goal is to minimize payouts, not ensure you receive fair compensation.
Be especially cautious about providing a recorded statement, as anything you say can be used against you. It’s wise to speak with a personal injury lawyer before engaging with any insurer. This ensures your rights are protected and prevents you from accidentally saying something that could jeopardize your claim.
Posting on Social Media
In today’s digital world, many people post about major life events, including car accidents. But sharing updates, photos, or “check-ins” on platforms like Facebook or Instagram can seriously harm your case.
Even private posts can become discoverable in legal proceedings. A picture of you at a social event or a comment like “feeling better already” might be twisted to suggest your injuries aren’t serious.
The best approach? Stay off social media or keep posts general and unrelated to the accident until your case is resolved.
Not Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer Early Enough
Delaying legal help is one of the most damaging mistakes an accident victim can make. An experienced Nashville personal injury lawyer—like those at Labrum Law—can take steps right away to:
- Preserve critical evidence
- Guide you through Tennessee’s comparative fault rules
- Protect you from common insurance tactics
- Ensure you don’t miss important deadlines
Hiring a lawyer early improves your chances of a favorable outcome and relieves you of the stress of handling the claim alone.
Protect Your Rights and Avoid These Costly Mistakes After a Car Crash in Nashville
Navigating the aftermath of a car crash is never easy, but avoiding common mistakes can greatly improve your ability to secure compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other losses.
From staying at the scene and calling the police to documenting the crash and avoiding social media, each step you take matters. Perhaps most importantly, don’t try to go it alone.
The attorneys at Labrum Law understand the tactics insurance companies use and know how to fight for the compensation you deserve. If you have been injured in a Nashville car accident, contact Labrum Law (615) 265-0000 today to discuss your rights and next steps.
