What Not to Say After an Accident

A car accident can leave you feeling shaken and confused. Unfortunately, this can also mean that you speak without thinking. What you say at the scene of an accident can have a greater impact on your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit than you might think.

Things You Should Never Say After an Accident

Every year, millions of people are injured in car accidents. If you are not careful, what you say can be used against you and can adversely affect your ability to collect compensation. Let’s look at the things you should avoid saying:

“I’m sorry.”

In everyday life, you may use the expression “I’m sorry” to help diffuse a tense situation. However, any apology that inadvertently slips out of your mouth after a car accident can come back to haunt you. The witnesses and police officer may recall your apology and report it when questioned by the insurance company. Your apology can be taken as an admission of guilt, which can adversely affect any settlement offer you receive. It could also lead to a court ruling in the other party’s favor. 

“Let’s handle this on our own.”

While you might think that handling an accident and related injuries on your own would be the most cost-effective, it will likely cost you more money in the long run. The attorneys at Law Office of William J. Luse, Inc. Accident & Injury Lawyers believe that you deserve the best representation possible. For that reason, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means we charge nothing for our legal services unless we successfully obtain compensation for you. 

“I accept …”

After a car accident that was not your fault, the at-fault insurance party’s insurance adjuster may offer you an early settlement. Frequently, this is a lowball offer designed to entice you into a swift lump sum payment. The insurance company will want to settle your claim as quickly as they can, and for the least amount of money possible. You should never accept an initial settlement offer without first consulting an attorney. A skilled personal injury lawyer can give you an accurate estimate of the value of your claim.

“I’m not hurt.”

Insurance settlement offers are almost entirely based on the medical expenses you incur from accident-related injuries. Many types of injuries that occur in car collisions don’t show up immediately. For example, a whiplash injury may not reveal itself until the next morning.

Take care not to minimize your injuries but instead seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. You should also visit your healthcare provider if any new symptoms or injuries appear in the following hours or days. You should also avoid posting about the accident on social media. The insurance company can use anything you say against you.

“That was my fault.”

Steer clear of any explicit admission that you were at fault for the accident. Oftentimes, due to shock and trauma, it can be difficult to view the accident objectively in the immediate aftermath. Without realizing it, you could admit to being responsible when you were not.

You could also receive a traffic citation if you accept liability, and the citation can negatively impact your claim. In addition to refraining from taking responsibility for the accident, you should not say things like, “I didn’t see you” or “You came out of nowhere.” Never speculate about the accident, and wait for the facts of your case to come out. 

“This is my official statement.”

At the scene of the accident, law enforcement officers will ask you a series of questions. However, your answers are not part of an official statement. The statement you provide to the insurance company will be considered your official, definitive account of the accident, and can be referenced in all future proceedings. Make sure you have an experienced personal injury lawyer present when you give your official statement. 

“I’m not working with an attorney.”

Even if you decide not to work with an attorney, do not advertise that fact. When an insurance company recognizes that the victim is not represented by legal counsel and has little experience with the claims process, they could try to take advantage of you. If you do not have a lawyer, tell them that you’re considering hiring legal representation.

“I don’t need a doctor.”

Even if you don’t believe you’re injured, we advise our clients to be seen by a qualified healthcare provider as soon as possible after the accident. The adrenaline rush that happens after a car accident can mask the early symptoms of many injuries. Other injuries may not show up for hours or days after the accident. By saying you don’t need a doctor at the scene of the accident, or refusing medical care by emergency personnel, you will harm any future personal injury claim you plan to file. 

Contact Law Office of William J. Luse, Inc. Accident & Injury Lawyers for Help After an Accident

If you were injured in a car accident that was not your fault, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact the experienced Myrtle Beach car accident attorneys at Law Office of William J. Luse, Inc. Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free consultation. Call (843) 839-4795 today to schedule your appointment with our office.