Involved In A Naples Car Accident? Here’s What NOT To Say
Even the most experienced drivers find themselves at a loss when a car accident in Naples. The suddenness with which a crash happens and potential injuries you may have suffered can leave you in a state of shock. During this time, you will likely be interacting with police, insurers, and others involved, trying to determine what happened and who is at fault.
If the other driver is to blame, you may think you have nothing to hide. We frequently share tips on what to do and say when a crash happens. In this post, our Naples car accident lawyer explains what not to say.
What Not To Say At The Scene Of A Car Accident In Naples
Emotions run high in the aftermath of a car accident in Naples. What you need to do is notify the police, provide a brief description of the driver, their vehicle, and where your accident happened, and call an ambulance if you or others suffer serious injuries.
While waiting at the scene and when answering law enforcement questions, keep in mind that under the Florida Statutes, you can be denied liability if found even partially liable for the crash. To protect yourself, here is what not to say:
- Avoid apologizing for the crash or admitting any fault;
- Avoid speculating on the cause or how it happened;
- Avoid discussing what you were doing prior to the accident;
- Avoid personal details about yourself or your driving, such as saying you were tired or have trouble seeing at night.
What Not to Say to Insurance Companies After A Naples Car Crash
Insurance companies frequently deny and downplay claims. In addition to being cautious at the accident site, watch what you say when dealing with insurers in the aftermath:
- Do not provide a recorded statement without getting legal guidance first;
- Do not accept even partial blame or indicate that you could have in any way avoided the crash;
- Do not guess or estimate details, such as the speed you were traveling at the time;
- Do not exaggerate or downplay your injuries, relying on medical records and statements from your doctor instead;
- Do not accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your damages.
Under the Florida Statutes of Limitations, you have up to two years to file a claim. However, you only get one shot in seeking compensation. Settling your claim too soon or being found partially liable could leave you paying heavy out-of-pocket costs for years to come.
Contact Our Naples Car Accident Lawyer Today
What you say after a car accident in Naples can make or break your case. Even a seemingly innocent comment could be used by insurers to deny or reduce your claim.
Cardinal Law, P.A. protects accident victims and their families when dealing with insurance companies. We negotiate and fight for the maximum compensation you need to recover in a claim. To get our team on your side, contact our office. Request a consultation today with our Naples car accident lawyer.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.81.html
leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0095/Sections/0095.11.html
