10 Statements to Share With Police After Car Collision to Establish Liability

It's essential to approach the situation with honesty and clarity when speaking to the police after a car crash. While you can't fabricate details to make the other side liable, you can ensure that you provide all relevant information accurately and completely. Here are ten things to emphasize:

1. Descriptive Account of the Incident

  • Clearly explain the sequence of events leading up to the collision. Describe what you were doing, such as stopping at a red light or maintaining your lane, and what the other driver was doing that caused the crash.

2. Mention Traffic Violations

  • If the other driver was speeding, ran a red light, failed to yield, or violated any traffic laws, make sure to mention this explicitly. Provide as much detail as possible about the violation.

3. Road Conditions and Visibility

  • Describe the road conditions and visibility at the time of the accident. If weather, lighting, or road surface played a role, ensure this is included.

4. Point Out Witnesses

  • Identify any witnesses present at the scene who can corroborate your account of the events. Provide their contact information to the officer.

5. Discuss Distracted Driving

  • If you observed the other driver engaging in distracted driving behaviors (e.g., using a phone, eating, or talking to passengers), mention this in your statement.

6. Highlight Any Admissions of Fault

  • If the other driver admitted fault or apologized at the scene, relay this to the police. Verbal admissions can be crucial for determining liability.

7. Provide Clear Evidence of Signals

  • If you had your turn signals, brake lights, or hazard lights on at the time of the accident, mention this to demonstrate your adherence to safety protocols.

8. Condition of the Vehicles

  • Describe the condition of your vehicle before and after the collision, and note any mechanical issues the other driver's vehicle had that might have contributed to the crash.

9. Detailed Account of Your Actions

  • Clearly explain your actions leading up to the crash, such as slowing down, stopping, or trying to avoid the collision. Highlight your defensive driving efforts.

10. Injuries and Impact

  • Detail any injuries you sustained and how the impact affected you physically and mentally. This information is essential for understanding the crash's severity and the other driver's responsibility.

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