Table of Contents
In Hartford, Connecticut, the at-fault driver is responsible for the damages resulting from an accident. This means that if you are involved in an accident where you were negligent, your insurance provider is responsible for the other party’s medical bills, vehicle repairs, and more. If you have been wrongfully accused of negligence, here are a few essential things to know.
Contact Your Lawyer Immediately
This is the first and most crucial step to take after being accused of negligence. A Hartford lawyer will help prove your innocence and ensure that the responsible party is held liable. Contacting them as soon after the accident as possible increases your chances of getting help. They will help you gather and preserve helpful evidence.
Gather Evidence at the Scene of the Accident
Collect as much evidence at the accident scene as you can. This step may have a significant effect on the result of your case. If it’s safe to move around without causing much damage or furthering your injury, take pictures of the accident and your injuries at different angles.
They should help you preserve essential facts regarding the accident. Take photos of the skid marks, traffic signals, and accident debris. If you can get back to the accident scene later, take pictures of its normal conditions.
Contact the Police
Like with any other accident, you need to call the police as soon as possible. They will arrive, check out the accident scene, and make a report. Their report may be valuable when you need to prove that you were wrongfully accused of negligence.
Get a few Witnesses to Back Your Story
Gather a team of witnesses whose accounts can help tell your story. Having credible witnesses is one of your best bets for getting past wrongful accusations of negligence. Your witnesses need to have been at the accident scene. If there is raw camera footage nearby, it can be beneficial.
If you have trouble finding first-hand witnesses, it may be okay to bring in people who know you and can vouch for your reputation. They may include your relatives, friends, or boss.
Don’t Admit Fault
No matter how much pressure you may be under, don’t admit fault for the accident. It may be tempting to apologize or explain your role in the accident. However, such statements may be used against you. Remain silent and don’t answer any questions in the absence of your lawyer.
Even when you aren’t in pain, please don’t make statements about it. You may have suffered shock or internal damage, and only a doctor should say if you are injured. Making premature statements could increase your likelihood of missing out on compensation.
Put Your History Together
One of the most effective ways to prove that you weren’t negligent is by proving that you are a model citizen who plays by the rules. Showing your excellent driving record, for example, may be proof that you are unlikely to drive negligently.
Report Your Injuries to the Insurance Company
Even if you are being accused of negligence, you must report your injuries to the insurance provider. Failure to let your insurance provider know about the covered event on time is likely to cause a denial of the claim. Some insurance providers may go as far as canceling your coverage.
You know how frustrating it can be if you have ever been wrongfully accused of negligence after a car accident. However, you need to remain calm and make the right decisions. You may even be able to turn the tables. Essential steps to take include contacting a lawyer, contacting the police, and gathering vital evidence.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
