Let’s face it – after a car accident, adrenaline is pumping, emotions are flying, and sometimes… people say things. Really weird things. As car accident attorneys, we’ve heard it all – and then some. Below are 10 completely real-ish (and completely outrageous) things people have said after a wreck.
Each one is followed by a helpful legal tip. Because while these are hilarious, your injury claim is not a joke.
1. “I didn’t crash. The car and I just temporarily disagreed on direction.”
Why it’s a problem: Unless your car is Kit from Knight Rider, it’s not having independent thoughts. You crashed, friend.
Legal Tip: Downplaying what happened doesn’t help anyone. Be honest (but not overly dramatic) when describing the accident – to the police, your doctor, and definitely your lawyer.
2. “I didn’t take pictures because I thought it would be rude.”
Why it’s a problem: This is an accident scene, not a wedding reception. Evidence is everything. Snap away like you’re the paparazzi and the bumper is Beyoncé.
Legal Tip: Always take photos. Damage, license plates, street signs, your twisted latte – everything.
3. “I apologized, hugged the other driver, and then Venmo’d them $50 ‘for the inconvenience.’”
Why it’s a problem: That’s not empathy – that’s an admission of guilt with a side of digital receipt.
Legal Tip: Be polite, yes. But don’t say anything that sounds like “Sorry this was my fault,” even if you’re Canadian.
4. “I think the squirrel caused the crash. He was staring me down. It was aggressive.”
Why it’s a problem: Unless the squirrel was driving a Honda Civic, this is not a great defense.
Legal Tip: Animal-related distractions don’t always absolve liability. Stay focused – and maybe lay off the road snacks.
5. “I didn’t report the accident because Mercury was in retrograde and I felt like the energy was off.”
Why it’s a problem: Cosmic vibes do not hold up in court.
Legal Tip: Always report the accident to the police. Saturn doesn’t issue crash reports – dispatch does.
6. “I told the insurance company I was totally fine… because I didn’t want to seem needy.”
Why it’s a problem: Humble is great – except when it tanks your injury claim.
Legal Tip: Never downplay your injuries. You’re not being needy – you’re being medically responsible.
7. “I left the scene to grab coffee. I figured we’d meet back later.”
Why it’s a problem: That’s not how accidents – or time travel – work.
Legal Tip: Never leave the scene of an accident, even if the drive-thru has a two-for-one cold brew deal.
8. “I signed something the other driver gave me. I think it said I was cool with whatever?”
Why it’s a problem: You may have just signed away your rights… for a smiley face and a handshake.
Legal Tip: Don’t sign anything at the scene of the accident except maybe the other driver’s name on a napkin to give to your lawyer.
9. “I didn’t go to the doctor because my cousin has essential oils and says lavender cures whiplash.”
Why it’s a problem: Look, we love a good diffuser. But lemongrass isn’t going to realign your cervical spine.
Legal Tip: See a real doctor ASAP. Essential oils aren’t admissible in court (unless the judge is a licensed aromatherapist. Spoiler: they’re not).
10. “I Googled ‘How to get rich from a car accident’ and followed the first Reddit post I saw.”
Why it’s a problem: Reddit also thinks birds aren’t real and recommends toothpaste for both acne and car scratches.
Legal Tip: The only thing you should Google after a crash is “Brijbag Law.” Trust real attorneys, not Carl420_YOLO.
Final Thoughts (and a Serious Note):
These are real-ish stories – but here’s the truth: a car accident can ruin your life if you don’t handle it correctly. One wrong move, one offhanded comment, and boom – your case could be in the ditch.
Don’t guess. Don’t Google. Don’t gift-wrap the other side a win.
Call Brijbag Law.
We’ve heard it all, fixed worse, and we’ll fight for what’s right.
“In a Collusion? Make the Right Decision!”
Call Brijbag Law today.
