If you’ve been injured by another driver’s negligence, your first inclination may be to apologize. After all, it’s part of being human, and you are obviously sorry that the accident happened in the first place. Nevertheless, your apology can set off a series of consequences that end with the insurance company claiming you admitted complete fault in the matter – case closed. If you’re injured in a car accident that was caused by another driver’s negligence, do yourself a favor and skip the apologies. In fact, keeping your thoughts to yourself, in general, is almost certain to work in your favor.
Focus on What Matters
Once you’ve pulled out of the way of oncoming traffic after an accident that leaves you injured, it’s important to focus on what really matters, including:
Calling 911
Enquiring about whether anyone is seriously hurt
Rendering whatever aid you are able to provide
Remaining on the scene until help arrives
Accepting medical attention at the scene (or obtaining it as soon after you leave as possible – if it is not offered) (Do Not Delay Seeking Medical Care after a Car Accident)
This should be your To-Do list. Save all discussions regarding your feelings on the matter for your dedicated car accident attorney. The best policy is to remain tight-lipped unless asked direct questions by an attending officer, and at this point, it is time to answer all the questions put to you as honestly and as succinctly as you possibly can.
So, You Think You Are at Fault
If you believe you are at fault for the accident in question or that you might share some of the fault, your task is going to be more difficult because apologizing for our transgressions is human nature. It is important, however, to keep in mind that it is also human nature to blame ourselves when things go wrong. Don’t make snap decisions before you have all the information. Further, it is critical to understand that – in this situation – you do not have all of the information you need to make an informed decision about fault (and it is better to leave this highly complex determination to an experienced car accident attorney who will carefully examine the facts from every angle).
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If You Share Fault, Do Not Panic
In the State of Texas, even if you share some of the fault in the car accident that leaves you injured, you retain the legal right to seek the percentage of damages that the other motorist is responsible for. This is true as long as you share no more than 50 percent of the responsibility, and you may be a lot less at fault than you realize (if at all).
Seek the Professional Legal Guidance of an Experienced Killeen Car Accident Attorney Today
Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, is an accomplished car accident attorney who is proud to be on your side and here to help. To learn more, please don’t wait to contact or call us at 254-501-4040 today.
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