The Dangers of Admitting Fault and Refusing Treatment After a Car Crash

Car Accident The Dangers of Admitting Fault and Refusing Treatment After a Car Crash

As you assess the scene after a car crash, you may feel the urge to say “sorry” to the other driver and admit that you made a mistake. You might also refuse to get a medical evaluation because you do not feel pain anywhere.

It is in your best interest not to do these things. There are legal dangers to admitting fault or refusing treatment after a car crash, so please work with an experienced car accident attorney to ensure your claim is protected.

Never Admit Fault or Say “Sorry”

Following an accident, people usually do not have time to reflect on their best interests and they may make a statement, including an admission of fault, which might not be exactly true. You should never provide more than your name, driver’s license, insurance information, and registration to a motorist who collided with you.

If you admit you are at fault, that is evidence that can be used against you in a civil claim. If you admit fault and the evidence shows you are in fact 100% at fault, you will not be able to make a claim against the other person, and you may expose yourself and your insurance carrier to damages that might not be otherwise owed.

Just like how Miranda warnings allow you the right to remain silent when there is criminal liability, you also do not have to admit if you were at fault in a car crash. Sometimes people will be polite by apologizing to the other party at the scene of the crash and that has the same risk. It can negatively affect a claim if you say, “Sorry” to the other driver, even if they were at fault.

The Risks of Refusing Medical Treatment

If someone really does not feel the need for immediate medical treatment after a car crash, they have the right to refuse it. However, they should know that if they tell an investigator that they were not injured in an accident, that may be used against them by an insurance company if they later decide to file suit for an injury that manifested.

The further away you get from an accident, the more difficult it is for medical doctors to say the crash was the cause of the injury. However, the vast number of healthcare providers will advise that someone can experience discomfort or problems from a motor vehicle accident days later. The adrenaline that kicks in after a traumatic event can mask the pain and prevent you from realizing something is wrong.

It is common for the defendant’s insurance company to say they should not have to pay damages because the plaintiff did not complain about injuries at the scene of the accident. If you are experiencing any kind of pain or adverse reaction right after a crash, you should inform the responding officer and seek medical help immediately. This is not only good for your physical health but it can also support a future personal injury claim.

Talk to a Lawyer if You Admitted Fault or Refused Treatment After a Car Crash

Your actions in the immediate aftermath of a crash can affect your ability to be compensated later. If you are in a condition to do so, you should call a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure you make good decisions.