SHOULD YOU TALK TO THE POLICE AFTER A CAR WRECK

There are different types of car accidents taking place across the country at an alarming rate. Some are minor accidents with some scratches or dents to the cars, while some involve serious physical injuries or even deaths. Irrespective of the type of accident, the police usually show up at the scene of the accident. Typically, they are called by the parties involved in the accident or by a witness to the accident.

A Critical Artifact

Most drivers call the police because they know the police report is going to be important evidence in proving fault and for claiming damages from an insurance company. Hence, if you are involved in an accident should you talk to the police that show up at the scene?

The Officer’s Objectives

The police are there to conduct a short investigation of the accident and write a report. This report may include who is at fault for the accident depending on the determination of the police officer. The police might also issue a traffic citation or ticket if they feel the driver/s has violated any traffic laws. However, they will also interview the drivers while investigating the incident.

This is not the time to verbally attack the police. First, that could merit you a ticket when you already looking at some financial losses despite whose fault the wreck is. Even if you win the case months from now, or a year later, that does erase the fact that you will be facing some financial issues right in the beginning. You do not need to receive a ticket from the police and if your accosting of the police officer is out of control, you can be arrested.

Nothing would make the at fault driver more happy than to see this. That is akin to giving them multiple Christmas presents. If you are not at fault, just allow the officer to do their job and speak when spoken too. If you do this, you will receive the report that you wished for.

Furthermore…..

You have two options, you could explain to the officer what happened, or you could simply provide your vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and driver’s license. You are not legally bound to give any statement to the police in most states.

Hire an Attorney

If you do not say anything at the scene, you always have the chance of telling your side of the story in court. If you choose to say something, you need to choose your words very carefully, and tell only facts. When you want to explain what happened, do not apologize, or claim responsibility for the accident. If you feel you might incriminate yourself by giving an account of what happened, then it is best to say nothing.

Regardless, allow a personal injury lawyer at Taylor King Law to help tell your side of the story; we are available 7 days a week at 870.246.0505.