Is it Wrong to Admit Fault in an Auto Accident?

No one likes being involved in a South Carolina auto accident. If you suffer injuries, you may have to go through a lengthy and painful recovery period. Depending on the nature of the injuries, your life may change considerably. Even if you escape without injuries, your car may receive damage. If you have to get your car fixed or get a new car, it can take time. The journey towards getting back on the road is likely to be frustrating. Even getting into a fender bender when you’re on your way to an important appointment can be incredibly inconvenient. Of course, simply being involved in a collision can leave you feeling scared and confused. Some people get so flustered that they will say or do anything to get the process over with.

Many drivers accept blame for the accident, assuming it will allow them to move on faster. This is especially likely if they really believe they did something to cause the crash. Unfortunately, this isn’t usually a good idea. Furthermore, even though you may think the accident was your fault, something else could have caused it.

If you get into an accident in Greenville or elsewhere in South Carolina, you need to keep state laws in mind. This is where a Greenville car crash lawyer can be very helpful. The driver who is found to be at fault for the crash is responsible for the damages they cause. In many cases, all the parties involved share some amount of responsibility. As long as you’re not more than 50 percent at fault, you can claim compensation. However, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. You, therefore, need to be very careful about what you admit to.

Sharing Details of the Accident with the Police

When the police arrive on the scene, you may be tempted to tell them you’re responsible for the accident. Don’t do this. Even if the other motorist casts blame on you, simply state the facts as they’re known to you. If you admit fault, this will go into the accident report. That report will be a crucial piece of evidence for the driver’s insurance company and their attorney.

No matter what the other driver says about you, don’t get caught up in an argument. Even if they blame you for the accident, this doesn’t mean you’ll be held liable in the end. The other driver will have to prove that you were negligent and that your negligence resulted in damages. If they can’t build a strong case, their accusations mean nothing. There’s no way they’ll be able to force you to compensate them.

By accepting the blame, you make it almost impossible for you to get compensation even if you deserve it. Furthermore, the other driver may even file a personal injury lawsuit against you. You shouldn’t lie to the police, but you shouldn’t say anything to incriminate yourself either. It’s best to speak to a South Carolina auto accident attorney for advice on what you should and shouldn’t say.

Working with An Attorney Following a South Carolina Auto Accident

When you meet with an attorney, they will help you determine if you can pursue a claim against the other driver. They will also explain the law and guide you on how to approach the situation. Your lawyer will work to prove that the other driver was primarily at fault. If you had a role to play in the crash, you will have to assume some liability. However, you shouldn’t have to bear more than your fair share of the blame.

 If the other driver was largely responsible, they should have to compensate you for your losses. These can include property damage, medical expenses, lost wages and more. Be sure to store all the documentation relating to your accident and your losses in a safe place. Your lawyer will need this evidence to build a case against the other motorist.

Contact A Greenville Car Wreck Attorney Today to Discuss Your Case

If you or a loved one was involved in a South Carolina auto accident, you need to protect your interests. Say as little as possible at the accident scene and call a car wreck law firm Greenville, SC urgently. We will advise you on what you should say and do to avoid incriminating yourself. We’ll even speak on your behalf in certain circumstances. We’ll do everything we can to ensure you are treated fairly. If you’re entitled to compensation, we fight to get it for you. All you need to do is contact us today to schedule a free consultation.