We’re always told what to do and what to say after being in a car accident, but we’re never told what not to.
However, the odds of being involved in an accident, whether minor or major, is very high when considering how many years of a person’s life they spend behind the wheel.
If you do happen to be in one, Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance, recommends that you leave the talking to your insurer as it has the legal expertise to deal with the aftermath.
What not to say
According to North, there are a few general things that you should avoid saying to any third parties following a car accident, regardless of who was responsible for it.
These include:
- I’ve got really good insurance, I’m sure they will fix your car.
- Please get a quote for the damage, and let me know, I will refund you.
- My dad’s friend is a panel beater, let me help you organise to get it fixed.
- If you claim from your insurer, I’ll pay your excess because it’s all my fault.
- I’m so sorry, it’s completely my fault! My insurer will pay for the repairs or refund you.
“Don’t admit liability, get involved in an emotional exchange, or debate who is at fault, even if you feel it was your fault or if the other driver is angry,” said North.
“If you stay neutral, it gives your insurer a better chance of defending you.”
After being in an accident, it’s imperative that you notify the police, attain the contact details and particulars of the other driver and their vehicle, take photos of the scene, and report the incident to your insurer.
“Beyond the exchange of details at the site of the accident, you do not need to speak to the third party,” said North.
Following this, your insurer will evaluate what happened and whether it was truly your fault, as well as if the damage caused by the accident is covered in your policy.
“If it is, the insurer will resolve the claim with the other driver or their insurance company. If your insurer decides that you are not responsible for the accident, it will fight the other party or their insurer on your behalf,” said North.
He also recommends that you don’t engage with the other party directly during the settlement process, but refer them to your insurer instead.
In the unfortunate scenario that you aren’t covered for damages, you will have to work with the driver of the other vehicle, or their insurer, to find a way forward.
The good news, said North, is that this will probably only happen if you were doing something illegal or reckless at the time of the crash, such as drunk driving.
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