Nobody wants to be involved in a car accident. Even if it is a minor one, it has big consequences on your life. First of all, you lose a vital form of transportation while your car is in the shop or needs to be replaced. Plus, you may be more worried about your injuries, or side effects that are likely not to show up until later, such as neck pain from whiplash. So you may be thinking that you should go ahead and admit fault. Unfortunately, even though a lot of people think this way, part of that is because you’re not in the correct frame of mind after an accident. That’s why it’s important to know what to do after a car accident, including what to say.
However, after an investigation, it may be discovered that the accident was the other driver’s fault for not yielding to you, for example. You may not be aware of what laws they broke just moments before the crash, what mental condition they were in or what percentage of responsibility they share in causing the accident.
Why You Should Never Admit Fault
If you have already admitted to being at fault for the accident, then it is going to be extremely hard to win a liability suit against the other driver, or to receive damages you may need to cover hospital bills. In fact, you may be on the hook to pay out damages! Even if it’s already your second time involved in an accident, especially if it’s drunk driving, a second DUI lawyer will always advise you to not say something so you wouldn’t be pressed for more charges.
Indeed, once you admit fault, your insurance company becomes the party legally responsible for paying the other driver, and any affected passenger or pedestrians, for damages from the accident. You don’t jeopardize your ability to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Do I Say To Avoid Admitting Fault?
There are a number of opportunities for a person to admit fault that you will want to be careful with your words during.
What To Say To The Police
When the police ask you about the accident, only explain to them what you remember and what happened from your perspective. Do not try to explain why you think some things happened. If you admit fault then it will be written into the accident report, which is later sent to both insurance companies, closing off your chances of getting compensation. You want your encounter with the police to be brief.
When The Insurance Company Contacts You
Avoid talking to the adjuster. The other driver and their insurance company is going to pressure you into admitting fault for the accident. First of all, if they ask you for a statement, contact your attorney first. The insurance company may try to trap you or intentionally misconstrue your words, and a personal injury attorney will be able to prepare you for when you do have to answer questions about the accident and your health.
Why You Need An Attorney
Insurance adjusters are trying to save the insurance company by not paying out. The other driver may insist that the accident was your fault. Anything can go awry in a car accident settlement if you do not hire a personal injury attorney, such as the ones you’ll find at Hipskind & McAninch Law Offices. The insurance companies are less likely to take advantage of you if you have an attorney, so call them today.