Admitting Fault in a Car Accident: Do’s and Don’ts

The aftermath of a car accident can be a confusing time. Not only have you just gone through a traumatic experience, but you also have to deal with other drivers, various insurance companies, and the police. Under South Carolina law, you may have a viable claim if the other driver was at least 50% at fault.

The things you say and do in the hours and days after a car wreck can have a significant impact on your ability to recover compensation. Importantly, at no point should you admit fault before talking to an attorney. Here are some do’s and don’ts about admitting fault after a car accident.

Do Cooperate with the Police

If the police respond to your accident, cooperate and answer their questions truthfully. That said, do not offer more information than asked. Be polite and answer questions honestly, but do not admit fault, even if you think you bear some responsibility.

Do Exchange Information and File a Police Report

You should exchange your driver’s license and insurance information with any other drivers involved. In addition, if the police do not respond to the scene, you are required by law to file a police report if the accident involved injuries, resulted in a fatality, or caused damage of more than $1,000. Importantly, it’s a good idea to file a police report even if you do not believe you are required to by law, as it creates a record of the incident.

Do Not Apologize

Many of us instinctively apologize for things even when they are not at fault. While this may be considered polite in some situations, it can be used against you after a car wreck. Even saying something as seemingly innocuous as “sorry, this just isn’t my day” could be seized upon by the other driver’s insurance company as an admission of fault.

Do Not Post on Social Media

Finally, you should avoid posting on social media after your accident. The other driver’s insurance company may monitor your accounts; if you post your version of events and say the wrong thing, it could be used as evidence against you. In addition, if your case involves injuries, any posts of you seeming anything but injured may hurt your claim even more. As a result, it’s advisable to avoid social media entirely while your case is pending.

Call Us Today to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation

If you have been hurt in a car accident, you should speak to an attorney as soon as you can. At Bringardner Injury Law Firm, we are committed to protecting victims’ rights and getting you the compensation you deserve. To schedule your free case evaluation, call us at 843-380-5299 or contact us online.