Reader’s Question:

What if I got into a car accident in Tucson, Arizona and someone sues me, what if I think the car accident is my fault, should I say so?

Bryan

Tucson, AZ

The Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) wants to make sure that everyone on its roads is protected and safe. For that same reason, it requires that all vehicles, including motorcycles, mopeds, and golf carts, be covered with liability insurance from a company that is authorized to provide the service in Tucson, Arizona.

If you get sued, contact your insurance agent and your lawyer right away. Normally, your car insurance company will assign a lawyer to handle your case. But, if you are sued for more money than the coverage of your policy, you may need your own attorney too. In addition, car insurance company lawyers do not handle traffic citations or criminal cases, such as hit and run charges. If you have been charged with a crime and cannot afford a lawyer, call your county’s Public Defender. You may qualify for free assistance, depending on your income.

If you have been involved in a car accident, do not volunteer any information about whose fault the accident was. You may think you are at fault and then later find out that the other driver is as much or more to blame than you are. Before taking and admitting your fault, you should first talk to your car insurance agent, your lawyer or both before taking the blame. If you confess anything to the police or the other driver it can be used against you in the court. Do not agree to pay for car damages or sign any paper except a traffic ticket until you check with your car insurance company or your lawyer.

Tags: auto insurance