Did you know that there are close to 6 million car accidents that happen every year in the United States?
Accidents happen every day, and while no one plans to be in one it is important to be prepared for if you’re ever involved. There are important things to know, like not admitting fault in a car accident.
Should you admit fault in a car accident it can cause a host of issues for you down the road even if you were at fault. It is best to provide the basics to law enforcement and let them determine the car accident fault.
Keep reading to learn more about what happens if you admit fault in a car accident, and why you should never admit fault.
Why Fault Matters
To put it simply, admitting fault in a car accident puts the legal liability for the accident on you. Car accident fault determines who pays for the property damage and medical bills that result from the car accident.
By admitting fault you could damage your case and miss out on compensation for your injuries and property damage. This could cost you thousands of dollars.
Don’t Discuss Admitting Fault in a Car Accident With Anyone But Your Lawyer
After you’ve been in a car accident you’ll have multiple parties asking for your version of the event. Your insurance company, the other driver’s insurance company, and law enforcement will all want to know what happened.
Your instinct will be to be helpful and informative because you want to make their job easier, but they won’t hear your words as you intend them to be heard.
The best approach you can take is to avoid talking about the car accident until after you’ve spoken with your lawyer. A lawyer will help you determine what to do next.
If you can’t get a chance to talk with your lawyer before speaking about the accident there are some tips you should follow.
Stick to the Facts
Talk only about the facts of what happened. If you don’t feel comfortable discussing it, you can say that you’re not qualified to discuss who is legally at fault in the accident.
Resist Blaming Yourself
It is natural to want to accept fault for the accident but that is a major mistake. It is possible that the people asking for your version of events want you to accept blame for the accident.
Blaming yourself for the accident could help the case of the other driver since the other driver won’t admit fault either.
Do Not Lie
No matter what you do or say, don’t lie. It is better to say nothing or decline to comment than it is to lie. Lying will come with great repercussions on top of you being hit with fault for the accident.
Don’t Assume Those Asking Questions Want to Help
The people asking you questions about the accident have a job to do. As much as it may seem like they want to help you, they’re ultimately looking out for their own interests and those of their company.
Now You’re Prepared
Admitting fault in a car accident is a big mistake that’ll cost you thousands of dollars and keep you from receiving the compensation you deserve. It is important to be prepared in the event that you’re part of an accident.
It may be difficult, but resist blaming yourself or accepting blame for the accident. It is also best to be truthful. If you can’t answer a question it is best to remain silent or decline to comment.
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