Marsalisi Law
What Is Considered Admitting Fault in a Car Accident?

Car accidents happen in an instant, and the experience can be frightening.  If you were in a crash, it might seem obvious to you what happened and that it may have been your fault.  If the crash does not seem to be severe, sometimes people perceive that admitting fault may seem like the best option to get on with your day. 

However, you should never take the blame for the accident, even if you believe you caused it.  Even saying “I’m sorry” may allow the other driver’s attorney to blame you.  Ultimately, only a thorough investigation by a St. Petersburg car accident attorney can determine who is to blame.  There might be additional factors you were unaware of that also contributed to the crash.  

Is It Bad to Admit Fault After a Car Accident in Florida? 

After a car accident, it may be natural for you to feel compassion toward the other driver.  The feeling is understandable, and you should always feel concerned about someone’s health and well-being.  However, it would be best if you never admitted fault to anyone at the accident scene, including passengers, witnesses, and other drivers.  Even if you caused the accident, it is best to keep that information to yourself.  It may be hard for you to retract your admission of fault later.

You should also avoid admitting fault to the police officers.  Remember, it is their job to assign fault, not yours.  In a situation like this, you might feel like you are lying or withholding information if you do not admit fault, but you probably do not know everything that contributed to the crash.  You must also remember that you might be only partially responsible for causing the accident.  For example, while you may have been speeding, the other driver may have been on their cell phone.  That said, ensure you do not make any misleading or false statements when speaking to a police officer.  

Why You Should Never Admit Fault for a Car Accident 

If you admit fault to a car accident, you might end up paying for all the damages the other party incurs.  Determining fault for a crash in Florida is not a straightforward process.  That is why the best option is to allow the police, insurance agency, your attorney, and other parties to determine which party is at fault.  

Furthermore, Florida is a pure comparative negligence state.  That means the compensation you may receive from the other driver is dependent on how responsible you are for causing the accident.  For example, you may collect up to 70% of damages if you were 30% liable for the crash.  Admitting fault at the accident scene may lead to an insurance company claiming that you were 100% liable, allowing them to deny your claim and leaving you stuck to pay all of your medical bills and accident-related expenses.  

What to Do If the Other Driver Blames You at the Accident Scene 

Emotions run high when a car accident occurs, so the other party may repeatedly blame you for the crash.  The best thing to do in this situation is to let them talk and not aggravate them further.  You might not be liable unless they provide sufficient evidence to an insurance company, judge, or jury. 

When facing a difficult situation with intense emotions, you never know how the other driver will react.  Even if they continue to place blame on you, stand firm in your denial.  Your car accident attorney can launch a thorough investigation and create a robust defense.  

Speak to a Skilled Car Accident Attorney in St. Petersburg Today 

If you were in a car accident in St. Petersburg, contact Attorney Frank P. Marsalisi of Marsalisi Law.  He can review your case and look for evidence that might shed light on others to blame on the others.  Additionally, Attorney Marsalisi can handle the day-to-day aspects of your case, such as filing paperwork, analyzing evidence, reviewing police reports, and interviewing witnesses while you focus on your recovery.  To schedule a free consultation with a skilled St. Petersburg car accident lawyer, call (727) 800-5052 or complete our contact form today.  

Marsalisi Law Is Where the Law Gets Personal!