Should I Accept Cash at the Scene of a Car Accident?
After a car accident, it’s not uncommon for the other driver to offer cash at the scene. While it might seem like a quick and easy solution, accepting cash immediately is almost always a mistake. Here’s why you should never take money on the spot and always go through insurance.
1. No Guarantee They’ll Pay
If you accept cash directly from the other driver, there’s no legal obligation for them to follow through. They could give you a small amount upfront and then disappear, leaving you responsible for medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses. Insurance exists to protect both drivers and passengers, so bypassing it puts your financial security at risk.
2. Injuries May Appear Later
Many injuries, especially neck, back, or soft tissue injuries, don’t show up immediately. Pain, stiffness, or swelling might develop hours or days after the accident. Accepting cash immediately could mean leaving significant compensation on the table, especially for medical treatment you haven’t yet received.
3. Insurance Protects You
When you file a claim through the other driver’s insurance company:
They are legally obligated to cover damages caused by their insured.
You have a formal record of the accident, which protects your legal rights.
Insurance adjusters are responsible for assessing both property damage and injury claims.
By accepting cash, you give up these protections and make it harder to recover your full damages later.
4. Preserves Your Legal Case
Lawyers rely on official documentation such as police reports, insurance records, and medical bills to build strong personal injury claims. Accepting cash at the scene can hurt your case if you need to hire an attorney later, as the payment may reduce the perceived value of your claim.
5. Always Get Insurance Information
Even if the driver claims they don’t want to involve insurance, always collect their insurance information. Texas law requires liability insurance, and having their policy information ensures that you can file a legitimate claim if injuries or damages appear later.
