Do Not Be a “Chatty Cathy:” While you may have opinions about the cause of the crash and observations about physical evidence, conversations with the other driver and/or his insurance carrier is usually ill-advised. A motorist’s perception also tends to be adversely affected by chaos and stress associated with a collision. This may result in giving erroneous time and distance estimates that allow an insurer to claim that you had sufficient time to stop prior to the collision, or avoid a collision altogether, but that you failed to do so. The information you provide will be used by the other driver's insurance company to support a claim against you or to reduce the amount of a damage award. Generally, you should stick to providing facts about which you are certain rather than guessing or speculating or providing opinions.
Never Admit Fault: The shock, pain, and stress of a vehicle crash can mean that a motorist is overcome by feelings of guilt and anxiety. Sometimes these emotions will motivate a person to blurt out “I’m sorry” or “It is all my fault!” These types of statements may be used by an insurance company to make a low-ball settlement.
Don't Sign Anything: This is particularly true if you are being asked to sign a written statement or a release. Make sure you consult with an attorney before signing anything.
You can reach Miami Personal Injury Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at [email protected].
