At Charles J. Argento, our Houston car accident attorney knows when our clients are involved in a vehicle collision in Texas, the moments after can be confusing. Not only is your adrenaline pumping wildly, but the driver and other vehicle occupants are immediately overcome by the damage, their injuries, and the next steps.
The next thing that will happen — if your injuries allow — is interacting with the other vehicle’s driver, witnesses, and law enforcement.
Here is what our Harris County personal injury lawyers want all Texans to know about what NOT to say after a vehicle collision.
What You Should Never Say After a Houston Car Crash
The first thing every driver thinks to say after a Houston vehicle collision is, “I’m sorry!”
Don’t. Saying I’m sorry can be construed as taking the blame for the crash, which can be detrimental to your recovery options.
Other familiar words and phrases that you should avoid after being involved in a Texas car accident include:
- My apologies.
- I did not see you.
- It was my fault.
- I did not realize how fast I was going.
- I should have been paying more attention.
- I was attending to my kids.
- I did not see the stop sign.
- I did not see the light change.
- My dog/passenger obstructed my view.
- You did not do anything wrong.
Keep in mind, you can still be courteous to everyone involved without admitting fault.
What To Do After Talking to the Other Driver(s) Involved in the Collision
While you are waiting for the police and first responders to arrive, avoid saying too much about the crash, and make sure that any statement you make is factual.
Avoid making any assumptions or expressing an opinion about how the collision occurred or blaming the other driver.
The police will investigate the crash and determine who is at fault, and the police report will be used as evidence to pursue your claim against the at-fault driver.
Allow the paramedics to assess your injuries at the scene, and transport you to the hospital when necessary. If you choose to leave on your own, seek medical care right away for your injuries, and follow all doctor’s orders going forward.
You are legally required to report any car accident in which you are involved to your insurance provider. However, you need to be especially careful about what you say to your representative and the other driver’s insurance company.
The at-fault driver’s insurance agent will ask leading questions and will record your call. They will use all their training to manipulate your statement. Say as little as possible to avoid implicating yourself and contact our skilled Houston car accident attorneys today to take the lead.
Contact Our Skilled Car Accident Lawyer in Houston, Texas for Help
If you were injured in a vehicle collision because of another driver’s negligence in Texas, contact our experienced personal injury attorney in Houston at Charles J. Argento today to schedule a free consultation by calling 713-225-5050 or by contacting us online.
Our law firm does not get paid until we obtain a settlement or verdict for you and will keep you updated during each stage of your case, so you know what to expect as the case moves forward.