Richmond, Virginia, where accidents happen just like anywhere else, has a lot going on. It’s the capital of Virginia and has been around since 1742. People love visiting the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and Maymont for their big gardens. You’ve got the Virginia State Capitol and the American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar if history is your thing.
Life in Richmond is busy; people drive everywhere, and accidents happen. If you’re ever in a crash here, talking to a car accident lawyer in Richmond can help you know what to do next. You’ve got options because the city is big enough for plenty of experts who know the streets, the laws, and the way accidents usually go down.
These are the top five things you should never say after a car accident.
1. “I’m Sorry”
It’s natural to say, “I’m sorry.” You might feel bad. You might even think it helps. But after an accident, it can be used against you. Saying sorry can make it sound like you were at fault, even if it wasn’t your fault at all.
Keep your mouth shut and don’t apologize. Simple. Stick to the facts. When the police come, just tell them what happened, who’s hurt, and where the damage is. That’s it.
2. “It’s My Fault”
Even if you think you caused the accident, don’t say it. You don’t have all the information yet. Maybe the other driver ran a red light, maybe the road was slick, maybe the weather played a part.
Admitting fault too soon can ruin your case or make insurance companies treat you unfairly. Wait until the full investigation is done. Just don’t say it.
3. “I Was Going Too Fast” or “I Didn’t See Them”
Don’t guess or speculate. Saying stuff like this can make things messy. Maybe you were speeding, maybe you weren’t. Maybe you didn’t see the other car; maybe the other driver was texting.
No matter what you say, your words can get twisted. Just stick to what you know for sure. The officer or lawyer will sort out the rest.
4. “I’m Fine”
You might feel okay right after a crash. That’s normal; everybody knows adrenaline can hide pain. But injuries can show up hours or days later.
Whiplash, concussions, internal injuries, and a couple of others might not hurt right away. Saying “I’m fine” can hurt your future medical claims.
Always say you want to be checked by a doctor.
5. Talking Too Much to Others at the Scene
You might want to explain or argue with the other driver. Or even just chat with witnesses. Don’t. Only exchange names, numbers, and insurance info. That’s it. Anything else can be used against you. Keep it short. Keep it simple.
What Else Can Go Wrong If I Speak Without Thinking?
Even beyond the five things above, there’s a lot that can go sideways:
- Calling insurance without knowing your rights.
- Forgetting to take pictures of the scene.
- Not getting your own medical checkup.
Key Points to Remember
- Don’t apologize.
- Don’t admit fault.
- Don’t guess what happened.
- Don’t say you’re fine without a check-up.
- Don’t talk too much at the scene.
- Call the police.
- Don’t discuss the accident beyond exchanging contact info.
