Admissions of Fault After An Accident

After a car accident, there are several things that a driver should do depending on the circumstances of the accident. The driver may have to check on the other party to the accident, call the police and seek emergency medical assistance if required. There are also certain things that a driver involved in an accident should not do following the accident. One of the most important things a driver should not do after an accident is admit to liability.

For some drivers, apologizing may be the natural thing to do even when they are not truly at fault. This may be the case especially when the other party to the accident is injured. However, apologizing for the accident, or admitting to violating a traffic offense that you believe is the cause of the accident can have serious consequences later.

Under state law, the person who is determined to be wholly responsible for causing the car accident is responsible for paying the damages to the other party’s vehicle and any resulting injuries. Admissions of fault can be important in proving a person’s liability.

Statements made at the scene of the accident, or even at the hospital can later be used against you by the insurance company to try and reduce the amount that is paid out or deny coverage altogether. When speaking to police officers about the accident, you should stick to the facts. No matter how sure you are of the facts that led to the accident, you should try to avoid making statements that interpret the facts. It is better to report just the plain facts and not conclusions.

When dealing with insurance companies, it is important to keep focused and not get too comfortable with the representatives, who may be trying to get you to admit to causing the accident or contributing greatly to it. This is why it is recommended that you never speak to the insurance company until you have first consulted with your own personal injury lawyer. 

It is especially important to consult with an attorney if there are serious bodily injuries involved. If you have consulted with an attorney and have retained them to represent you, you should route all communication with the insurance company through the lawyer. Your lawyer is looking out for your best interest, unlike the insurance company adjusters who are looking out for the company’s best interest.

Contact a Personal Injury Law Firm Today

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you pursue for damages you may be entitled to for the losses your injuries have caused, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.

If you have been injured in an accident, do not speak with the at-fault party’s insurance company without obtaining legal advice. Call an experienced attorney at Saavedra Law Firm.