The Facts of Fault: Is an Apology After an Auto Accident an Admission of Fault?
Award-winning Carrollton auto accident attorney Tim O’Hare says it is complicated
Merriam Webster Online defines the word apology as “an admission of error or discourtesy accompanied by an expression of regret.” The insurance companies no doubt see an apology as such expression of fault.
If an insurance company has evidence that an injured party says he or she is sorry, the for-profit company will use this information to back up their claim that this party’s actions contributed to the auto accident. Parties to an auto accident should not answer insurance company questions in a recorded interview until first speaking with an attorney.
Think, Before You Apologize
Auto accident attorney Tim O’Hare understands the intricacies of personal injury law, and apologizing for an auto accident, while it may feel like a compassionate and human thing to do, is not the best thing to do. It can cause more complications that may prevent an injured party from collecting on the true injuries and damages suffered.
Other reasons it is not the best course of action to say, “I am sorry,” after an auto accident include:
● All Facts Unknown – An injured motorist cannot possibly have all the facts surrounding an auto accident, as he or she only sees one side of the story. For example, would a motorist involved in a crash know that another motorist was negligent and distracted by texting or was drinking and driving? Although one motorist may “feel” at fault, illumination of all facts surrounding the accident is required, by police, insurance company adjusters, and attorneys, to get a clear picture of who contributed and how.
● Reshaping Reality – An apology may reshape the reality of the situation to witnesses and the other parties involved in an accident. If an onlooker or witness or other driver hears the apology, it may alter how the accident is viewed through his or her eyes. This may alter how he or she discusses the accident’s facts with police and other investigators.
While auto accidents and personal injuries sustained in Carrollton, Texas, and beyond are always regrettable events, it is best not to verbalize the apology, even though the feelings may certainly be felt.
For more information or a free consultation, please contact us.
Merriam Webster Online defines the word apology as “an admission of error or discourtesy accompanied by an expression of regret.” The insurance companies no doubt see an apology as such expression of fault.
If an insurance company has evidence that an injured party says he or she is sorry, the for-profit company will use this information to back up their claim that this party’s actions contributed to the auto accident. Parties to an auto accident should not answer insurance company questions in a recorded interview until first speaking with an attorney.
Think, Before You Apologize
Auto accident attorney Tim O’Hare understands the intricacies of personal injury law, and apologizing for an auto accident, while it may feel like a compassionate and human thing to do, is not the best thing to do. It can cause more complications that may prevent an injured party from collecting on the true injuries and damages suffered.
Other reasons it is not the best course of action to say, “I am sorry,” after an auto accident include:
● All Facts Unknown – An injured motorist cannot possibly have all the facts surrounding an auto accident, as he or she only sees one side of the story. For example, would a motorist involved in a crash know that another motorist was negligent and distracted by texting or was drinking and driving? Although one motorist may “feel” at fault, illumination of all facts surrounding the accident is required, by police, insurance company adjusters, and attorneys, to get a clear picture of who contributed and how.
● Reshaping Reality – An apology may reshape the reality of the situation to witnesses and the other parties involved in an accident. If an onlooker or witness or other driver hears the apology, it may alter how the accident is viewed through his or her eyes. This may alter how he or she discusses the accident’s facts with police and other investigators.
While auto accidents and personal injuries sustained in Carrollton, Texas, and beyond are always regrettable events, it is best not to verbalize the apology, even though the feelings may certainly be felt.
For more information or a free consultation, please contact us.
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