Admitting Fault in a Car Accident: Here’s What You Need to Know

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No one gets behind the wheel expecting to cause a crash. But the unfortunate reality is that car accidents are an everyday occurrence on the busy streets and highways in and around Philadelphia.

In the painful aftermath of a wreck, it can be hard to think straight. You may feel shaken up, disoriented, and unsure of what to do next, especially if you believe the collision was your fault.

As experienced personal injury and accident lawyers serving the Philadelphia region, the experienced Philadelphia car accident attorneys at Gibbons & Crichton Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers have helped countless individuals facing the challenging circumstances that follow a car crash. One of the most critical and consequential things to be aware of is how admitting fault in a car accident can impact your case. Here is a closer look at what you need to know.

Why You Should Not Admit Fault at the Scene

In the tense moments immediately after an accident, you may be inclined to get out of your vehicle and start apologizing profusely to the other driver, even if you are not entirely sure the crash was your fault. You might blurt out something like “I’m so sorry, I didn’t see you!” or “This is all my fault, I feel terrible!”

While these reactions are understandable, we strongly advise against admitting fault in a car accident. There are several reasons for this:

  • Fault is not always clear cut. Even if you think you caused the accident, there may be contributing factors you are unaware of, such as the other driver texting behind the wheel or a vehicle malfunction. A full investigation is needed to determine fault.
  • Statements can be used against you. If you admit fault to the other driver, they will almost certainly inform their insurance company. The insurer may try to use your statements to deny your claim or get you to accept an unfairly low settlement.
  • You may be injured and not thinking clearly. Car accidents are highly traumatic events. In the heat of the moment, you may be feeling overwhelmed and not have a clear picture of what happened. If you are wondering how to not admit fault in an accident, just don’t say anything that will compromise your claim.
  • It is best to speak to an attorney first. Before providing any statements about the accident to the other parties involved or insurance companies, consult with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer who can advise you of your rights and help deal with insurers on your behalf.

Instead of admitting fault in a car accident, check to make sure everyone is okay or if anyone needs medical attention. Call 911 if needed. Then, focus on gathering information, such as the other driver’s name and insurance details, witness contact information, and photos of the damage and scene if you can do so safely. But avoid extensive discussions about who is to blame.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

In Pennsylvania, drivers are required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or severe enough vehicle damage that it cannot be driven. After the accident is reported to insurance, you will likely be contacted by the insurance adjuster assigned to the case. They may pressure you to provide a recorded statement.

Again, it is best to not admit fault when speaking with any insurance representatives, even your own. Stick to the basic facts of what occurred without elaborating or speculating about the fault.

An insurance company’s goal is to pay out as little as possible for accident claims. If they can get you on record admitting fault, they will use it to justify denying your claim or reducing your settlement.

Do not fall into this trap. Tell the insurance adjuster that you need to speak to your lawyer first before providing a statement.

How a Car Accident Lawyer Can Help

Being involved in a serious wreck is scary enough without the added stress of the claims process and dealing with insurance companies that do not have your best interests in mind. This is where having a skilled Philadelphia car accident attorney in your corner can make all the difference.

Your lawyer can handle communications and negotiations with the insurance companies, so you do not have to. If the insurers try to claim that your admission of guilt at the scene means you are not entitled to compensation, your car accident lawyer in Philadelphia can push back and work to demonstrate how you are not solely at fault.

Often, an in-depth investigation is necessary to determine all the factors that led to the crash and who bears responsibility. Your lawyer can gather evidence, interview witnesses, analyze police reports and medical records, and if needed, work with accident reconstruction experts to show how the other party’s negligence caused you harm.

Most car accident cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the insurance company. Your attorney can handle these negotiations and fight for a fair settlement on your behalf. However, if the insurer refuses to offer an acceptable settlement, your lawyer can take your case to trial and present a compelling case for full compensation before a judge and jury.

Seek Legal Help

Admitting fault after a car accident can have serious ramifications for your ability to recover payment for your damages. Even if you think you caused the crash, avoid taking the blame or apologizing at the scene. Instead, focus on making sure everyone is okay, gather information, and contact a qualified Philadelphia car accident lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your case.

At Gibbons & Crichton, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, we have been standing up for the rights of car accident victims throughout the Philadelphia area for many years. We can thoroughly investigate your case, handle the insurance company, and fight to secure the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

If you have been injured in a car accident that may be your fault, do not admit guilt to the other driver or insurance representatives. Call the experienced legal team at Gibbons & Crichton, Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, for consultation to discuss your case and how we can help protect your interests.

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