Many drivers automatically feel responsible after a car accident. However, knee-jerk guilt may not reflect what occurred. Fault is an objective conclusion based on both explicit and implicit legal standards. 

For example, most people assume they are at fault if they create the impact. But this may not be true if the other driver’s violation of state and local traffic rules caused you to drive into them.

Therefore, you should rarely admit fault. Even if the full investigation reveals the other driver’s negligence, your statements may be used against you in court.