5 Things Not to Say After a Car Accident
Saying the wrong thing after a car accident could compromise injured victims’ ability to recover full compensation for injuries and other damages. Statements that are made after a crash can be used against victims when they file personal injury claims or lawsuits against negligent parties. If an individual is involved in a car accident, the following are some of the things that he or she should avoid saying.
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1. Apologies of Any Kind
Victims should not say the word “sorry” or offer any other type of apology. Others may perceive this as an admission of guilt. Subsequently, other parties involved may be able to use this apology against the victim, even if the victim wasn’t at fault for the accident.
2. Acceptance of a Settlement
Following an accident, the other party’s insurance company may contact victims to propose a settlement offer. Insurance companies often begin negotiations with low settlement offers that are not enough to pay for victims’ losses. This is why it’s not in victims’ best interests to accept the initial offer. Instead, a car accident attorney may negotiate with the insurance company to obtain a better settlement on the victim’s behalf.
3. Denial of Injury
Due to the rush of adrenaline after a traumatic accident, injury victims may not notice the symptoms of serious injuries for hours or even days after a crash. While some victims may not need to seek immediate medical treatment for their injuries, they shouldn’t assure others involved in the accident that they are not injured.
4. Admitted Fault
Personal opinions about who caused the accident should be avoided when making statements to other drivers, insurance companies, or the police. Even if a driver initially believes he or she was at fault for the crash, the other party could be determined to be responsible after an accident investigation has been completed.
5. Expressed Thoughts About What Happened
It’s important to avoid making assumptions about the aspects of the accident. If an accident victim is unclear about what happened, it’s best to avoid saying anything at all.
Knowing what to avoid saying after a car, motorcycle, biking, or trucking accident can help secure a victim’s right to recover compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit. The questions to ask your attorney about a car accident should include finding out about what steps to take, as well as what to avoid doing to protect your rights.
