What If Another Driver Accuses Me Of Causing A Car Accident?
Being involved in a car crash is stressful, but the situation can become even more exasperating when the other driver unfairly accuses you of causing the crash. Unfortunately, this is a fairly common occurrence, so we’ve included a few tips that could help you if you end up accused of causing an accident.
Avoid Apologizing
Tensions can run high after an accident and some people, in an effort to appease the other party’s anger, may offer an apology even if they weren’t at fault for the crash. While a polite and empathetic gesture in most cases, apologizing after a crash is almost never a good idea. While you may just be saying you’re sorry that the other driver is upset, or even expressing regret that the accident happened at all, the other driver’s insurers and attorneys can use this statement as an admission of guilt. While it can feel like the right thing to say after a car accident, apologizing can be extremely harmful to your case.
Remember to Stay Calm
If you are involved in a crash and the other driver starts throwing accusations around, it’s important to remain calm. By escalating the situation, you risk inadvertently harming your case and doing so could even end up being dangerous if it develops into a road rage incident. Your physical safety could be in danger if you argue with someone at an accident scene. Remember to keep your cool.
Stay at the Scene of the Accident
Florida law requires that most car accidents be reported to the proper authorities, so it’s not only a good idea, but also often legally required to remain at the scene of an accident until help arrives. Never let another driver convince you to ignore the accident. Instead, contact the police and exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. If, however, tempers are running high, it’s also okay to get a little distance from the scene. Of course, if you feel that you’re in danger, get in your car immediately and call emergency services right away.
Document Everything
The evidence you collect at the accident scene could end up making or breaking your case. Be sure to document everything by taking photos of your own car, as well as the other vehicle, and the area where the crash took place. Collect the contact information of anyone who saw the crash and seek medical attention as soon as you can to check for any injuries. Be sure to take note of anything incriminating that the other driver says and does, as these details can be used at a later date to strengthen your case.
Reach Out to a Car Accident Lawyer
If you were accused of causing a car crash, you could be facing a lawsuit. An experienced attorney can help counter any unfair accusations and build your own case by investigating the true cause of the crash and then helping you pursue compensation. To speak with a Florida car accident lawyer about your own legal options following a car crash, call Boone & Davis at 945-566-9919 today.
Sources:
forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/what-to-do-after-accident/
flhsmv.gov/insurance/involved-in-a-crash/
