Are You Liable? Common Misconceptions in Accident Policies Explained

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You’re cruising down the road when, out of nowhere, another car swerves into your lane. The collision wasn’t your fault, but the insurance adjuster disagrees. Now, you’re staring at a bill that shouldn’t be yours to pay.

Many people assume their accident policy will automatically shield them from financial fallout, but the reality can be different. The myths surrounding liability can leave you vulnerable when you least expect it.

Knowing the truth about accident policies could mean the difference between walking away stress-free and fighting a costly battle with insurers. Read on to find out more.

Summary hide

If the Other Driver Apologizes, They’re Automatically at Fault
You Don’t Need to Call the Police for Minor Accidents
Your Car Insurance Rates Won’t Be Raised If You’re Not at Fault
You Can’t Be at Fault If You Were Hit
Insurance Will Always Cover Medical Bills After an Accident
Accident Policies: Keep Yourself Protected
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If the Other Driver Apologizes, They’re Automatically at Fault

It’s human nature to say “sorry” after an accident, even if you’re not sure who’s responsible. But in the world of insurance and legal claims, an apology doesn’t mean legal liability. In fact, insurers and courts look at evidence, like:

Traffic laws
Surveillance footage
Witness statements
Expert accident reconstruction
Weather and road conditions

To determine fault.

In a busy place like Las Vegas, where reckless driving is common, it’s easy to assume that the driver who rear-ended you is always at fault. But what if you suddenly slammed on your brakes without reason? Or your brake lights weren’t working? This is why police reports, dash cams, and eyewitness statements matter more than what someone says in the heat of the moment.

You Don’t Need to Call the Police for Minor Accidents

A lot of drivers think that if the damage is minor, they can just swap insurance info and be on their way. But in some states, failing to report an accident can actually get you into legal trouble. In Nevada, for example, drivers must report any crash involving injury, death, or property damage over $750.

Even if it looks like a simple fender bender, hidden damage to your vehicle (or delayed injuries) could surface later. Having a police report can support your future insurance claims and protect you from the other driver changing their story down the road.

If you ever find yourself in this situation, contacting experienced Las Vegas injury attorneys can be the smartest move.

Your Car Insurance Rates Won’t Be Raised If You’re Not at Fault

It would be nice if insurance companies only raised premiums when you caused an accident, but that’s not always how it works. Some insurers will increase your rates even if you were the victim, especially if you file a claim.

You Can’t Be at Fault If You Were Hit

Getting hit doesn’t automatically mean you’re in the clear. Say you’re making a left turn at an intersection, and another driver speeds through a red light, hitting you. At first glance, they’re at fault. But if investigators find that you hesitated in the middle of the intersection, they could argue you contributed to the accident.

Insurance Will Always Cover Medical Bills After an Accident

A lot of drivers assume that if they have good car insurance, they’re covered for everything. But policies don’t always work that way. Standard liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others, not your own injuries. If you want your medical expenses paid, you need either MedPay or personal injury protection.

Even then, insurance companies often look for ways to minimize payouts. They might argue that your injuries were pre-existing or that your medical treatment wasn’t needed.

Accident Policies: Keep Yourself Protected

Accident liability isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Not understanding what’s going on can cause major problems if you’re not careful. Use this information, and you’ll have an easier time.

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