When it comes to car accidents, you may think that actions speak louder than words. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. The words you utter immediately after a collision can impact the strength of your accident claim, even if you aren’t completely at fault. Before you talk to the other driver, you need to choose your words wisely.
At The Benton Law Firm, our goal is to help victims of car accidents get the maximum amount of compensation they deserve after a collision. One of the ways you may be able to help improve your chances of getting full and fair compensation is to watch what you say. At The Benton Law Firm, we have compiled a list of the four things you should avoid saying after being involved in a car accident.
Never Say “I’m Sorry”
After an accident, it is almost a reflex that people utter the words, “I’m sorry.” Unfortunately, these words don’t always indicate that you are offering your condolences. These words can be used against you as a sign that you were at fault for causing the crash. Yes, the simple phrase “I’m sorry” or offering up any form of apology after a collision can imply that you caused the accident.
I’m Not Hurt
After being involved in an accident, your heart is racing and adrenaline is pumping through your veins. While this gives you the burst you need to stay alert, it can dull your sense of pain. This adrenaline rush means minor injuries may fly under your radar until the excitement of the accident wears off. Never make statements about your injuries at the scene of an accident.
Do not claim that you are unhurt or say, “I’m fine.” You may have significant injuries that you simply aren’t aware of yet. If you say that you are not hurt on the scene, then try to file a claim for medical expenses, you may be hurting your chances of recovering fair compensation.
No matter how minor the crash, always seek medical attention. Signs of concussion or even whiplash can take hours, sometimes even days, to fully manifest.
Avoid Social Media
Misery loves company. When you are involved in a serious life event, you want to share your experience with family and friends. Understandably, you need extra support during this difficult time, but don’t go looking for it on social media. You may think that your words are innocent enough, but an insurer can take those words and attempt to hold them against you. Statements made on the Internet about the crash could impact the overall value of your claim for compensation.
I Think That . . .
Insurers are not interested in what you think, they are interested in what you know. Whether you are on the scene talking to the other driver or giving an official statement to the insurer, keep it simple and factual. Do not offer “I think” or “I believe” statements. Speculation and opinions will not help your accident claim. It is okay to say, “I don’t know” if you are asked a question that you genuinely don’t know how to answer.
Also, be very careful when talking about the accident with an insurance company. They may ask to record your call or that you give an official statement. It can be extremely difficult to remember all the details of an accident when you are suddenly put on the spot. Forgetting something, omitting a detail, or misstating something in your official statement can impact your accident claim.
It is always best to talk to an experienced car accident attorney before giving your statement to an insurance company. An attorney can handle the communication with the insurers and negotiate on your behalf for the money you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney Today
Your words can have a major influence on the value of your car accident claim. At the scene, remain calm, call the authorities, and exchange information with the other driver. Keep your interactions simple and factual. Before you talk to the insurance company, consider contacting a skilled car accident attorney first.
At The Benton Law Firm, we can manage all communication between you and the insurer. We will also work tirelessly to negotiate on your behalf, so you have the best chance possible of receiving the money you need. We know talking to insurers can be challenging. Let us handle the communicating while you focus on your recovery.
To discuss your potential case, call our office today at (214) 777-7777 for a free and confidential legal consultation with our car accident attorneys.