Because you are a polite and caring person, you often find yourself apologizing for even the smallest of slights. For that matter, you even may say “sorry” when you have done nothing wrong. Still, if you apologize after a car accident, you may make matters significantly worse for yourself.
According to reporting from NBC News, apologizing may make others think less of you. When it comes to receiving fair compensation for your injuries and property damage, though, your apology may give the responsible driver or an insurance company ammunition to use against you.
Accidentally admitting fault
For many, an apology is an admission of guilt. After all, if you say you are sorry, you have probably done something wrong.
Even if you think you share some or all of the blame for the crash, you cannot possibly know about every aspect of it. Therefore, it is usually better to wait until you have all the information before determining your role in the accident.
Saying too much
What may start as a simple apology for the inconvenience of a car accident may lead to further expressions of regret. That is, when you begin a conversation with another driver by saying you are sorry, you open the door to saying too much.
Remember, an at-fault driver or insurance company may use anything you say at the accident scene as cover either to offer you a low settlement or to deny your compensation completely.
After a car accident, it often makes sense to say as little as possible to the other driver. Ultimately, by opting not to apologize, you may immediately improve your odds of receiving the compensation you deserve.
