When the at-fault driver lies to their insurance company about their involvement in a crash, it can be difficult to prove the truth. Please continue reading to learn how an experienced New York City Car Accident Attorney can help you protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
What Happens if an At-Fault Driver Lies About Their Involvement in an Accident?
Following a car accident, it’s important to prove fault as it determines who is financially responsible for damages. When assessing fault, a policyholder’s statement is one of the biggest factors in how insurance companies reach settlements. However, if this conflicts with another statement, then evidence and witness statements will be used to make a final determination regarding liability. A driver lying can have significant repercussions and even result in insurance rates being raised due to the accident. Without corroborating evidence, conflicting statements can result in the claim being denied or the insurance company refusing to pay. As such, you must do everything you can to ensure that your version of the car accident is corroborated if the other driver is lying about their involvement in the crash. This can be achieved by collecting as much evidence as possible from the accident scene.
How Can I Protect My Claim?
In the unfortunate event that you have been injured in a car accident and the at-fault driver is lying about their involvement in the crash, it’s crucial to understand the steps you must take to protect your rights.
When a car accident occurs, you should immediately call the police. The police officer will conduct a preliminary investigation, collect evidence, talk to witnesses, and file a report at the scene. This report may be used as evidence as it can help establish the facts of the accidents, such as the who, what, when, where, and how. When you are speaking to the police, you should describe the accident accurately, but avoid admitting fault or making guesses about what may have caused the accident. Even taking partial blame can result in the officer or an adjuster drawing the wrong conclusion, which can cause issues later when determining who is financially responsible for damages.
If you have sustained injuries, seek medical attention. Keep in mind not all car accident injuries are immediately visible and have delayed symptoms. Adrenaline can often mask pain. Even if you feel fine, you should be examined by a medical professional. Not only will this ensure your health and well-being, but it will also make a record of your injuries, linking them directly to the accident. If circumstances permit, you should take pictures and videos of the accident scene. A skilled attorney can help you obtain phone records and surveillance footage, which can help prove the other driver’s fault and dishonesty. If there are witnesses, you should collect their contact information as they may be able to corroborate your version of the events.
At Swerling Law, we are prepared to help you investigate the circumstances of the accident and collect evidence to support your claim. Our legal team can help you understand your rights. Connect with our firm today to discuss your case.
