Should I admit liability after an accident?

Ebony Barker • September 2, 2024

Should I admit liability after an accident?


When customers phone us after an accident, we always tell them never to admit liability in the first instance. Whilst you can try and predict how you’ll react after an accident, you’ll never really know for sure until it happens. It’s an extremely stress-provoking and emotional experience, so we always recommend taking as much information as possible from the scene and phoning CARS to find out what to do next.


After the accident occurs, we recommend gathering the following information:

  • Personal details and insurance policy information for all parties involved
  • Personal details of any witnesses
  • Details of all vehicles involved, including registration, make and model
  • Date and time of the incident
  • Images/ videos of all vehicles involved, with close ups of all damage where possible
  • Images/ videos of any road markings
  • Dash cam footage, where available
  • A note of the weather conditions at the time of incident


As above, we always recommend contacting CARS before your insurance company. This can help you to avoid any pitfalls, and ensure you receive accurate and non-biased advice, tailored to your individual circumstances.


Remember, don’t apologise or admit responsibility for anything that has occurred until you are completely aware of what happened. This will protect you if the accident wasn’t your fault, and liability will be determined fairly via evidence provided.


If you want to discuss an accident you’ve been involved in, regardless of whether you were at fault, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. 

By Ebony Morgan • October 23, 2026
Find out what affects your car’s part-exchange value, including age, mileage, condition, service history, specification and current market demand.
Best Used Cars Under £10,000
By Ebony Morgan • October 20, 2026
Looking for the best used car under £10,000? Find out what your budget could buy and how to choose a used car that offers good value for money.
By Ebony Morgan • October 14, 2026
Vehicle history checks provide valuable information when buying a used car, but they have limitations. Find out what they can reveal and what else you should check.
By Ebony Morgan • October 14, 2026
We are delighted to share that CARS of Grimsby was shortlisted as a finalist in the Family Fortunes category at The Business Hive’s Great Big Small Awards, which took place on 25th September.
Used car inspection guide
By Ebony Morgan • October 14, 2026
Buying a used car? Learn what to inspect before you buy, from bodywork and accident damage to service history and the test drive.
By Ebony Morgan • October 9, 2026
Why can two similar used cars have very different prices? Understand why condition, history, mileage, preparation and warranty can affect value.
By Ebony Morgan • September 29, 2026
Should you buy a used car privately or from a dealer? Compare the price, preparation, legal protection and support available with each option.
By Ebony Morgan • September 29, 2026
Compare main dealers and independent used car dealers, including vehicle choice, preparation, warranties, pricing and customer service.
By Ebony Morgan • September 22, 2026
How much should you spend on a used car? Learn how to set a realistic budget by considering the purchase price, finance and ongoing running costs.
By Ebony Morgan • September 21, 2026
Learn what RAC Approved Dealer status means when buying a used car, including vehicle checks, preparation standards, warranty and breakdown cover.
Show More