If you are involved in a car accident and the other driver lies about the events that took place you may be confused and rightfully angry. Although it can be frustrating, you have several options to disprove their false claims. Work with a San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer during your case for experienced representation.
What Should I Do if the Other Driver Lies About Our Car Accident?
When a car accident occurs between two or more vehicles, it is important to determine fault. When a driver knows that they are at fault or at least contributed to the accident, they may begin lying to protect themselves. If that is the case, the most important thing you can do is focus on gathering evidence. Take photos and videos at the scene of the accident including the vehicles, damage, street signs, road conditions, skid marks, etc.
Take the evidence to your insurance company and report the accident right away. Explain the situation honestly. They will look into the matter and if the other driver lies to their insurance provider the two entities will communicate during the investigation to determine liability.
It is also important to contact an attorney. A skilled lawyer will understand how to deal with a situation like this and what evidence is necessary to provide. They can handle communicating with relevant parties and fight for your right to compensation. If you are wrongly found at fault your lawyer can help take legal action to fight against the decision.
Are There Legal Penalties for Lying About an Accident?
There are several legal repercussions that an individual can face after lying about a car accident. While most drivers will not face criminal charges for misinformation surrounding a crash, the following penalties may apply depending on the details of the situation.
- Insurance fraud: Insurance fraud is the crime of giving false information to an insurance company for some sort of benefit or advantage. If the driver told their or your insurance provider that you were responsible for causing the accident, denied their part in it, or provided false evidence or information in an attempt to be awarded compensation, they can face legal repercussions. Submitting a fraudulent insurance claim is a felony in California and punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $50,000 or double the amount of fraud, whichever is greater.
- Perjury: Perjury is the crime of knowingly lying in court while under oath. If the case went to court and the other driver continued giving false information even after taking an affirmation to tell the truth, they can face felony charges and be sentenced to up to 4 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
- Lawsuit: You may also sue the driver for various reasons. If their lies constitute a defamation of character or if you sustain undue financial hardship as a result, you may have grounds to sue them.
Consult with a knowledgeable attorney to get their perspective on your situation and learn whether or not you have a valid case.
