Motor Vehicle Accidents – What to do if you are at Fault

If it turns out that you were pretty clearly at fault for your car accident, it’s not the end of the world, but it could end up costing you a certain amount of both money and hassle, depending on the specifics of your situation. Here are some things to keep in mind if you’re legally responsible for someone else’s injuries, vehicle damage, and/or other losses after a car accident.

Watch What You Say

Even at the scene of the most minor car accident, where no one is hurt and the vehicles just “traded paint,” things can be hectic and nerves can be on edge. It isn’t always easy to figure out who was at fault (or mostly at fault) for the crash, and the accident scene isn’t the proper time and place for making those kinds of determinations.

There are a number of things you should do (and are in fact legally obligated to do) at the accident scene, but one big “don’t” is this: Don’t admit you were at fault for the crash. In fact, don’t say anything that could even be construed as an admission of fault — things like “I didn’t even see you,” or “I’m sorry.”

This is not to suggest that you should lie or withhold necessary information when you’re talking with others who were involved in the accident. Be polite, exchange contact and car insurance information, and co-operate with any law enforcement officer who comes to the scene. Just don’t get into any discussion of fault at the scene, with anybody. It may be a more complicated question than you think, and there will be plenty of time for a fault determination later on, after all the facts are in.

If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, contact the professional attorneys at Lipschutz and Friedman. We are here for you when you need us!