Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be frustrating and complex, especially if the other driver starts lying. An at-fault driver may create a false narrative to avoid dealing with the responsibility of causing the crash. Speak with a Middlesex County auto accident attorney for more information on your options and rights.
What Should I Do if the Other Driver is Lying About an Accident?
If you catch wind that the liable driver is lying about the details of the accident, consider the following steps.
- Remain calm: However tempting it may be, avoid confronting the other driver. Starting arguments or being overly angry and emotional can reflect poorly on your case.
- Gather evidence: Give your statement to the police and collect as much evidence as possible to prove your version of events. Helpful evidence can include photographs of the scene, vehicles, damage, and the surrounding area like skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions. Witness statements, the police report, and surveillance footage can also corroborate your claim.
- Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide the evidence you have collected and give an honest explanation of what happened. Your insurance provider will launch an investigation, communicating with the other driver’s insurance if necessary to determine who was at fault.
- Contact a lawyer: If the case becomes complex or you are found liable for the accident, contacting a skilled lawyer is in your best interest. Your attorney can evaluate your case, communicate with both insurance companies, gather and present evidence, ensure your rights are protected, and represent you in court. It is important that you are not held responsible for damages that were not your fault. Your lawyer can help make sure that does not happen.
- Take legal action: Depending on the details of the situation you may need to pursue legal action against the other driver. Lying about an accident can be considered illegal if the situation meets certain standards. Your lawyer can help you make this decision.
Are There Legal Repercussions for Lying About a Car Accident?
Several legal repercussions can apply to a driver who lies about a car accident. If the person provided false information to their insurance provider or your insurance provider in an attempt to receive compensation from a claim it can be considered insurance fraud. While denying responsibility for the accident is not necessarily enough to count as fraud, making up a story and attempting to recover damages can result in fraud charges.
Some complex car accident cases will go to trial if they cannot be resolved. If the case goes to trial and the other driver lies about the accident while under oath, they can be charged with perjury.
You may also be able to sue the at-fault driver. If their lying caused you significant financial or other hardship, it could be grounds for a lawsuit. Their actions may have caused damage to your reputation or prevented you from recovering your rightfully deserved compensation. Consult a skilled attorney to discuss your options today.
