If you’re involved in an auto accident, it’s important to avoid saying certain things to the other driver and law enforcement, once you’re interviewed at the scene of the accident. Some things you may say can be seen as admitting fault, which can significantly damage your claim. At Child & Jackson Personal Injury Lawyers, our car accident lawyers have created this guide on what not to say after a motor vehicle collision to protect your legal rights and your claim.
How to Protect Your Auto Insurance Claim After An Accident
If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision, what you do and say following an accident can have a major impact on how successful your claim is.
At the scene of the accident, avoid saying the following:
I’m Sorry
For many people, apologizing to the other driver immediately following an accident can be a matter of simply being polite. However, if you say you’re sorry to the other driver right after a car crash, this can be interpreted as you admitting fault. An insurance company can use your apology against you to deny your claim or minimize payout.
I Didn’t See You
Never say you didn’t see the other driver or that the driver just came out of nowhere. This can cause the other driver or the insurance company to claim you were distracted and not paying attention to the road, resulting in the accident.
Can We Settle this Without the Insurance Companies?
If you try to settle the accident without notifying the insurance companies, not only can this make you look like you’re trying to get out of paying what you owe or avoiding an increase in your premiums, but it can also result in the loss of your insurance coverage or higher premiums. All insurance companies require their policyholders to report an accident within 24-72 hours. Additionally, if the other driver was at fault and you suffered injuries and other damages, the other driver will likely not have enough compensation to cover the cost of all your accident-related losses.
When Should I Contact a Car Accident Lawyer?
Shortly after the collision, the other driver’s insurance provider will try to contact you, asking to record your statement as they listen to your side of the story. During this conversation, they will ask you confusing, misleading questions, in an attempt to get you to say something that could damage your claim. They may even offer you a low settlement, giving you a deadline to accept it.
To protect your rights and your claim, you should contact a car accident lawyer at Child & Jackson as soon as possible. A car accident lawyer on our legal team can investigate your accident and gather evidence to build the strongest case possible. They will also handle all communication with the insurance company, to prevent you from saying something that could accidentally harm your claim. During this time, they will also negotiate with the insurance company, fighting for your right to fair compensation.
Contact Us Today
If you were involved in an auto accident and you sustained injuries and other damages, contact a car accident lawyer at Child & Jackson today to schedule a free legal consultation. We can meet with you to discuss your case, go over your legal options and rights, and help you determine the best course of action moving forward. Contact us today to learn more.
