Statements to Avoid Making After a Car Accident

After a car accident in Missouri, you may feel confused or disoriented. You could say something without thinking. However, what you say to the other driver, witnesses, insurance adjusters, or law enforcement in the aftermath of the accident could affect your claim if you were injured and intend to seek compensation. 

In this article, the experienced car accident attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC, discuss how what you say after a car accident could affect your case and provide examples of what not to say after a crash. 

How Words Could Hurt a Claim

 If you carelessly comment that an accident was your fault or simply say “I’m sorry” to the other driver at the scene, you could affect your ability to pursue compensation for your injuries. 

Words matter – especially at the scene of a car accident. Because law enforcement creates a crash report, they may document anything you say about the crash, including innocent statements or apologies to other drivers. Additionally, the other driver could report your comment to their insurance company, and the insurer may be unwilling to negotiate a fair settlement based on what you said. 

The best practice is to not say anything to the other driver except to exchange insurance information. When you speak to the police, stick to the facts and do not make any guesses about what happened or who was responsible. Being careful about your words can help protect and preserve your legal rights.  

Statements to Avoid Making After a Car Accident  

• “It was my fault.” Suggesting the car accident was your fault could be misconstrued by police and insurance companies as an admission of liability. Responsibility for a car accident isn’t always immediately evident in the aftermath of a crash. Let your lawyer investigate the crash and evaluate the liability of the parties involved.
• “I’m sorry.” Many people feel the urge to apologize after an accident, regardless of whether they think they were to blame. But, an apology could be considered an admission of fault, even if it is said casually. Even if you feel bad about the accident, refrain from apologizing to the other driver or the police. 
• “I don’t think we need to call the police.” Even if the accident is minor, you should contact the police to have them investigate the scene and create a crash report. Refusing to call the police could signal to the other driver that you have something to hide or think you were at fault for the accident.
• “I feel fine.” Even if you appear uninjured or have minor injuries, you should be evaluated by medical personnel at the scene of the accident. If you aren’t taken to the hospital from the crash scene, see your medical provider immediately to have any injuries diagnosed and treated. 
• “Don’t worry about it.” This statement could be construed as minimizing your injuries or even the other driver’s liability. 

Contact Sumner Law Group, LLC, for Help with Your Accident Claim 

The car accident attorneys at Sumner Law Group, LLC, have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate the legal process after a car crash so you can focus on healing from your injuries. Contact our firm today for a free consultation.