When You Are At Fault In An Auto Accident: Key Considerations

Being in a serious auto accident is one of the most stressful events anyone can go through in their lives. A bad as this is, things are even worse if you are the driver at fault in the accident. This article takes a look at some of the key points to keep in mind if you're in a crash where it appears that you will be declared responsible for what occurred.

Scene

One of the most important things you can do directly after the accident occurs is to avoid saying anything that implicates you as being at fault, even if you think you are responsible for what happened. For example, do not say anything like "I'm sorry I hit you. I wasn't paying attention," or make any other statements to anyone at the scene that could be considered an admission of guilt. Do not lie about what happened to the police or anyone else, just give the details of what happened without acknowledging fault.

Insurance

What happens after the accident regarding your insurance depends on the state laws where you live. In most states, the insurance company of the responsible party pays the claims of the other driver. So if you are responsible for an accident, your insurance company will be able to take care of any financial settlement in most instances. Of course. in this case, your premiums will most likely go up after the accident. Some insurers, however, offer "accident forgiveness" for a fee. This is a provision that keeps your rates from increasing, even if you are at fault.

A number of states do not work like this, and are known as "no fault" states. They do not, as a general rule, worry about which driver is at fault. Each driver's insurance pays their own claims. This does not include damage to your vehicle, which is covered separately. Another important consideration to keep in mind is that, if you are at fault, and the medical bills and pain and suffering of the other party are beyond certain financial limits imposed by the state, the other party may be able to file suit against you.

Being at fault in an auto accident is a tricky situation, and it can put you in danger of being the defendant in a lawsuit in some instances. For more information about this topic and how to deal with issue if it ever occurs, contact an experienced car accident attorney near you. Law firms such as McMenamin & McMenamin, PS today.

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