Insurance experts warn drivers not to do this one thing after an accident

Millions of drivers have said sorry at the scene of a crash, even when they weren't to blame, potentiallyjeopardising their insurance claim. One in ten confess to having apologised after an accident, even though they were not at fault, while others have said they're sorry without knowing who was responsible.

What most motorists don't understand is that this could be used against them during the claims process.According to Confused.com, whether you believe you're in the wrong or not, it's best to avoid saying sorry at the accident scene, as the other party could interpret it as an admission of guilt.

Even though apologising doesn't legally mean accepting responsibility, the other insurer might attempt to use it against you later on.

• Dancing With The Stars' Robert Irwin's relationship admission leaves fans stunned
• 'I thought I was going to die after being savagely attacked by a feral squirrel'

Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at Confused.com, which commissioned the poll, said: "Being involved in an accident on the roads isn't something pleasant to think about, but it's important that motorists are prepared and know what to do if this happens."

A study conducted via OnePoll revealed that while eight out of ten drivers feel confident they'd know what to do if involved in a road accident, the reality is quite different.

Almost half (45 per cent) of those who have been involved in an accident confessed to not taking the details of the other driver, with the majority neglecting to take a photo or video evidence of the scene.

Shockingly, it was reported that half failed to inform their insurance company at the time of the incident, with 6 per cent not reporting it at all.

According to the survey, this is because 49 per cent didn't realise that road accidents should be declared to their insurance company even if they don't intend to claim. However, failing to do so can void policies, hike up insurance prices, and risk future coverage refusals, experts warn.

If you find yourself in a road traffic accident, car insurance experts at Confused.com advise you to check for injuries, call emergency services if necessary, and exchange details with the other driver.

Rhydian Jones, motoring expert at the brand, added: "With more than 128,000 road users being involved in a road accident in 2024, it is more important than ever that motorists are aware of the steps to take should this happen to them, to avoid landing themselves in hot water.

"Even if you don't want to make a claim, it's important that your insurer knows about any accident you've been involved in to reassess your policy.

"Insurance is in place to keep you and our roads safe, as well as making the aftermath of a car accident as straightforward as possible."