Whether it’s a serious collision or a small collision involving two cars, being in an automobile accident can be a terrifying experience. For instance, car accidents are common in St. Louis, with one occurring in February 2024. According to KSDK, one person died, and two were hospitalized in the Downtown crash. Following a collision, a car rolled onto a pickup truck’s roof.
Emotions run high in the moments following an accident, and it’s easy to say things that could harm your case. After a car accident, knowing what to say and what not to say can help you protect your rights and prevent yourself from unwittingly admitting fault. This might increase your likelihood of not getting paid for your losses.
In this article, we’ll discuss some crucial things you should avoid saying after being in a car accident.
“I’m Sorry, It Was My Fault”
Immediately after a car accident, it’s natural to feel a sense of responsibility, even if you believe the accident wasn’t your fault. However, apologizing or acknowledging fault at the accident scene may be interpreted as an admission of liability.
Preventing yourself from saying this is crucial, even if you believe you might have played a part in the accident. These declarations could be interpreted as an admission of guilt and can impact your settlement claims.
For instance, Forbes states that Missouri follows pure comparative negligence law. This means that one party can sue the other at any time for their fault. So, if one party is at 30% fault for an accident, the other party can sue for that amount of compensation.
“I’m Not Injured”
You might not realize the full extent of your injuries right away in the adrenaline-filled moments following a car accident. It’s important to avoid making categorical claims about your condition, even if you think you haven’t been seriously harmed.
Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not manifest for several hours or days after the impact. Saying you’ll get medical attention to make sure everything is alright is better than pretending you’re not hurt.
“I Accept Your Offer”
You are not required to accept a settlement offered to you at the scene by the other party or their insurance company. It’s common for the full extent of damages to take time to become apparent. Thus, accepting an early settlement could prevent you from pursuing further compensation later on.
Instead, it is advisable to consult with a legal professional before agreeing to any settlement to ensure you’re fully compensated for your losses. TorHoerman Law states that lawyers have experience negotiating with insurance companies. They also know various tactics these organizations can use to reduce potential settlement amounts.
Therefore, hiring a local car accident attorney ensures the right compensation and justice. Considering the above example of the Downtown crash, the victim can hire a St. Louis car accident lawyer for negotiation.
“I’ll Handle This Without Getting the Insurance Companies Involved”
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that Missouri has a fatal accident rate of 15.45 per 100,000 people. This shows the high chance of collisions on the state’s roads or cities. Thus, some people may avoid including insurance companies in an accident.
It may be tempting to resolve the situation privately with the other party involved in the accident. However, insurance companies must be involved. Car accidents are covered by insurance. Things could get complicated if you don’t notify your insurer of the event. Additionally, the other party may later claim injuries or damages that were not initially apparent, leaving you vulnerable to financial liability.
“I’m Fine, Let’s Just Exchange Information and Go”
Having automobile insurance is mandatory in most US states, including Missouri. According to MarketWatch, most good drivers can get minimum coverage for as low as $23 per month as a premium. Insurance is meant to offer financial aid in the event of a crash. Therefore, most people exchange contact and insurance information after an accident.
While sharing this information is crucial, it’s equally important not to rush the process or downplay the seriousness of the situation. Even if you feel okay, assessing the vehicle damage and evaluating your physical condition is essential. Failure to do so could complicate later matters if you discover additional injuries or damages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Offer an Apology at the Accident Scene?
It’s normal to be concerned about everyone’s safety. However, do not apologize in a way that could be interpreted as a confession of guilt. Instead, concentrate on ensuring everyone is safe and sharing the required information.
If the Other Person Acknowledges Fault at the Scene, What Should I Do?
Even though it might seem good, never discuss the fault or make agreements without first getting legal advice. Limit yourself to factual information exchanges and delegate fault determination to insurance companies and attorneys.
Is It Possible to Bargain With the Insurance Company Without Using Legal Counsel?
You can bargain with insurance adjusters independently without the need to involve lawyers.
However, getting legal counsel will help you know your rights and get the most money possible. Personal injury attorneys have experience dealing with insurance companies, so they can represent your interests.
If There Aren’t Any Serious Injuries, Does the Accident Still Need to Be Reported to the Police?
It is advisable to report any accident to the police, regardless of how serious the injuries or property damage are. An official incident record, such as one in a police report, is useful for legal and insurance claims.
What Should I Do if the Other Person Starts Acting Irrationally or Unhelpfully?
Keep your cool and avoid making things worse. Concentrate on recording the accident scene and obtaining the relevant data. If needed, seek assistance from law enforcement or legal professionals to handle the situation appropriately.
In summary, getting into a car accident can be a frightening and stressful event. In the aftermath of a collision, it’s crucial to remain calm and avoid saying things that could harm your case. By refraining from making statements construed as admissions of fault, you can protect yourself and ensure that you can pursue compensation. Always remember that following an automobile accident, it’s advisable to speak with a legal expert.