What Should I Do If Someone Lies About a Car Accident?

With car accidents – like with most things in life – there are often two sides to the story. The drivers in a crash can come to drastically different views on how an accident occurred. Unfortunately, those disagreements are not always in good faith. To avoid legal or financial trouble, some drivers will simply lie about the factors surrounding a crash.  

In some accidents, the other driver will initially appear apologetic and take responsibility for the crash. Later, their story could change dramatically. To combat a changing story, it is important that you take steps to document what actually occurred during a crash.  

When the other driver lies about what happened in a car wreck, it can impact everything from your driving record to your insurance claim. Thankfully, a Los Angeles car accident lawyer could assist you with ensuring the truth comes out.  

Ensure the police report is accurate 

One of the most important factors in a car accident is the police report. This report is prepared by independent law enforcement officers that investigate the crash. Insurance companies often give substantial deference to these reports. That does not mean they are always accurate.  

At the scene of the accident, you should ensure that the officer hears your side of the story. Your role in the process does not end there. Once the report is filed, you are entitled to obtain a copy of it. If there are factual inaccuracies or the report fails to reflect your view of the crash, you could request to have the report amended. A Los Angeles car accident lawyer could assist you with this process.  

If the other driver makes the decision to lie at the scene of the crime, your first step is to remain calm. There is little you can do to prevent the other driver from lying, but you can offer your version of events and point to any factors that might support your case.  

Document the accident scene 

While the police typically respond to the scene of an accident to investigate the crash, it is in your best interest to develop the strongest case possible. This starts with documenting the scene of the accident with photographs. Recording the severity of the damage to both vehicles could provide powerful evidence of how the accident occurred. In some cases, the other driver involved in the crash will claim to have never been there at all. Photographic evidence could show that the person was at the scene of the crash.  

If there are independent witnesses of the accident, recover their contact information right away. Witnesses that were not involved in the accident could provide valuable testimony in your favor and counteract any lies the other side may tell.  

Contact your insurance company 

No matter what the other driver says, it is important to keep your insurance company in the loop. By giving your insurer your side of the story immediately, they can be prepared if the other driver’s insurance carrier believes the false stories provided by their insured. Contacting your insurance company after a crash is more than just good practice; it is required under most policies. Failing to inform them of an accident could put your claim at risk.  

Speak with a seasoned injury attorney 

More than anything, you need a strong advocate in this difficult situation. At Ellis Injury Law, we are experienced in dealing with other motorists that are less than truthful. Our comprehensive approach to investigating your claim could put you in the best position to show what actually happened in your accident. 

While an insurance company has a contractual duty to defend you, their primary concern is the bottom line. As your legal counsel, our firm will always put your interest first. We will not hesitate to take on the dishonest driver, their carrier, or even your own insurance company if necessary. To discuss how we could help you pursue compensation from your accident, schedule a free case evaluation with Ellis Injury Law right away.