Home The Weirdest Things People Do After a Car Accident

The Weirdest Things People Do After a Car Accident

Reading Time: 4 Minutes

September 9, 2025Briana Seftel

Driver feeling overwhelmed after accident

Car accidents are stressful, embarrassing, and sometimes downright surreal. In the heat of the moment, even the calmest people can react in bizarre ways.

We’ve seen everything from drivers frantically vacuuming their cars to hide messy interiors, to people nervously confessing to things that have nothing to do with the crash (like a red-light incident three years ago).

For a lighter take, here are some of the strangest—but surprisingly common—things people do after a wreck, plus what you should do instead.

1. They Apologize Over and Over (or Make Full-On Confessions)

Blurting out “I’m so sorry!” feels natural, but it can sound like you’re admitting fault. Some people even start rambling about unrelated mistakes, which can complicate things further.

What to Do Instead:

Be polite, but keep it simple. Exchange information, wait for the police, and never speculate about who caused the crash. Save the details for your lawyer and insurance adjuster.

2. They Flee the Scene

Some drivers panic and leave, thinking they’ll avoid trouble. Unfortunately, fleeing the scene is not just a bad idea—it’s a crime that can lead to serious penalties.

What to Do Instead:

Always stop. Check for injuries, call 911 if needed, and wait for law enforcement. Even if the accident seems minor, leaving can turn a simple insurance claim into a criminal case.

3. They Post About It on Instagram

It might be tempting to share a “Just wrecked my car” post, but insurance companies and opposing lawyers can use your words against you.

What to Do Instead:

Stay offline. Anything you post—photos, jokes, even casual comments—can resurface in your claim or lawsuit. Protect yourself by keeping the accident off social media.

4. They Forget to Document Anything

Many people drive away with no photos, no witness info, and only a foggy memory of what happened. That makes proving your side of the story much harder later.

What to Do Instead:

Take plenty of pictures—of the vehicles, the damage, the road, license plates, and any visible injuries. If witnesses are present, get their names and phone numbers before they leave.

5. They Try to “Tough It Out”

Some drivers shrug off medical care because they feel “fine.” The problem? Adrenaline masks pain, and untreated injuries can worsen over time. Even minor injuries like whiplash can lead to long-term complications.

What to Do Instead:

Always get checked out by a medical professional, even if you feel okay. A quick visit can catch hidden injuries early—and medical records help connect your injuries to the crash.

Don’t Be That Story

Car accidents bring out the weird in all of us—but your response can make a huge difference in how things play out. Stay calm, get medical help, document the scene, and let professionals handle the rest.

If you’ve been in a crash and want straightforward guidance (no judgment), reach out to DK Law. We’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help protect your health, your rights, and your wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents

What should I do if I accidentally admit fault at the scene?
Don’t panic. Limit further discussion, document what happened, and report the accident to your insurance company. Consult a lawyer before making any formal statements.

What if the other driver flees the scene?
Call 911 immediately and provide as many details as possible—vehicle description, license plate, direction of travel. Witnesses and surveillance footage can help identify the driver.

How long should I wait before filing a claim?
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Prompt reporting ensures your claim is processed smoothly and evidence is preserved.

Can minor injuries still affect my case?
Yes. Even if you feel okay, injuries can appear days later. Medical records linking your injuries to the accident are critical for insurance claims or lawsuits.

Is it ever okay to post about my accident online?
It’s safest to stay offline until your claim or case is resolved. Anything you post can be used against you, even if you think it’s harmless.

About the Author

Briana Seftel

Briana is the Web Content Manager at DK Law, where she oversees digital strategy and creates clear, client-focused content in the legal field. She earned her B.S. in Journalism from Boston University and brings a strong editorial background to her work, translating complex legal topics into accessible and engaging web content.