It is good to be right, it is better to be wise

Motor insurance policies clearly state drivers should not admit liability even though they are clearly in the wrong.

COMMENT

By Carol Leong

The teen that drove against traffic in the North-South Expressway and caused the death of a motorist was criticised by many netizens for pleading not guilty when charged in court.

One of them was reported to have said, “Her pleading not guilty is as if she felt no remorse for what she did.”

While such emotional outbursts are normal, Malaysians ought to know that this may bring more harm than good.

Drivers should be aware of the terms and conditions of the motor insurance policy, which clearly states that they should not admit liability even though they are clearly in the wrong.

Those who do not adhere to this cardinal rule can cause gross injustice to the victims or their families, as they may not receive compensation for the injuries or death as the result of the accident.

Insurance companies may repudiate cover if drivers do not follow the stated guidelines and instructions. When this happens, there is no insurance cover.

Suing a driver with no assets or means to pay would be a futile exercise. As such, it would backfire if the victim or family insists that the driver admit liability or guilt.

Bus and lorry drivers have also pleaded not guilty when charged in court for causing deaths in road accidents. It comes as no surprise as they had probably followed instructions.

Insurance companies will also repudiate cover if the insured vehicle was driven under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The career of a highly successful executive can be ruined and the family suffer untold misery if involved in an accident resulting in serious injury or death to others.

If a police report is made the next day, which is still within 24 hours, traces of alcohol in the blood will be gone.

But if the victims or families insist on reporting the driver that caused the accident was drunk, it will only add to their sufferings later.

It feels good to be right, but it is wiser to do what is better for the future.

Carol Leong is an FMT reader.