If you are ever involved in a vehicle crash, it is crucial to avoid accepting blame. Admitting the collision was or may have been your fault will hamper your chances to claim compensation.
However, many drivers would never even think of admitting a crash was their fault. Regardless of insurance issues, they would automatically look to blame something or someone else.
People often incriminate themselves without realizing it
Here is what some often-heard excuses really mean:
- I had to swerve to avoid another vehicle: When drivers leave a safe distance between vehicles, drive at a reasonable speed, and pay attention, it gives them plenty of time to adjust their position in accordance with what other cars do. If they are “forced” to make a sudden maneuver, they are likely too close, too fast or not paying attention.
- The vehicle went out from under me: While there may be the odd slippery patch of road with no warning, typically, there are signs to indicate the danger. They may be road signs, or they may be visual cues such as other cars slowing, loose bits of gravel or water on the road or people cutting the grass along the roadside. If a driver does not notice those signs or ignores them, they may hit the slippery patch at speed and skid into you.
There is no point in getting into a heated discussion at the crash scene. Instead, listen to what the other driver says and note it down so you can discuss it with your legal team when it is time to claim compensation.