Be Careful What You Say After A Car Accident

In the aftermath of a car accident you may be reeling, you may be injured or in shock. It is understandable that you may want to talk to the other parties involved in the accident, or talk to an insurance company afterward. It is important for you to know that the things you say after a car accident may be used against you.

Do Not Say Anything To Others Involved in the Accident

If you are in a position to make sure other people are okay, then you can and should do so. However, you should not admit fault or offer an apology to anyone else involved in or injured in the accident. Do not make any statements to others about the accident, or about who caused the accident, or what was at fault.

Your statements made to the other driver(s), or others involved in the accident, can be used as an admission of guilt against you if the case later goes to court.

Only make statements to law enforcement officers on the scene. Generally, such statements are privileged and cannot be used against you later.

Under Florida law, if you are involved in an accident that results in only vehicle or property damage (not in injury), then you have a duty to stop your vehicle and remain at the scene until you have given your name, address, and registration number of the vehicle you were driving. SS 316.061-062 Fla. Stat. (2016). If no one was injured, move your vehicles if they are impeding the flow of traffic. If someone was injured in the accident, do not more your vehicles until you are told to do so by law enforcement officers on the scene.

Do Not Say Anything To Insurance Adjustors

It is important to understand that insurance companies are not on your side, they are not your friend. Insurance companies and insurance adjustors are looking out for their bottom line – which means paying the least amount possible on any claim.

They will try to use any details you give them against you. They may even purposefully try to confuse you or twist your words. You are under no duty to give an insurance company a recorded statement, and you have the right to have an attorney represent you and deal with the insurance company on your behalf.

Do not be taken advantage of by an insurance company after an accident. Read our articles Tactics Insurance Companies Use To Take Advantage of Accident Victims and 5 Tips For Dealing With Insurance Companies After A Car Crash.

Personal Injury Attorneys are Advocates For Your Rights

We know how to protect your rights and advocate for your interests. We know how to properly value your personal injury claim. We have been dealing with insurance companies and their unsavory tactics for decades. When you hire us to represent you in your personal injury claim, you will have true advocates on your side. Unlike the insurance company, we will look out for your best interests.

Put our trial team to work for you. Call our office today 866-767-4711 to schedule a free consultation.

Draper Law Office proudly serves clients throughout Central Florida, including Kissimmee, and Orlando, and Osceola County and Orange County, FL.