After a car crash, a driver who caused the accident may lie about what happened to avoid the consequences. In this type of situation, filing for an injury claim can cause serious complications. At MacGillis Wiemer, LLC, we have been helping injured victims to seek maximum compensation. In this article, we learn what you can do to protect your claim in case the at-fault driver lies after causing a crash.
How Can a Driver’s Lies Damage Your Claim?
If the other driver lies about how the collision took place, it can seriously hurt your claim. If the at-fault driver’s lies are believed, it could cause your claim to be denied or, even worse, leave you to pay damages that you did not cause, such as:
- Medical expenses for the injuries you sustained
- The cost of repairing or replacing your vehicles
- Post-accidental care like physical therapy, pain management and rehabilitation
- Support devices such as wheelchairs or crutches
How Do You Protect Your Claim If the At-Fault Driver Lies About the Crash?
There are various steps you can take to protect your claim. The first and foremost thing you need to do is contact the police. The investigators handle everything and examine the crash site. They take statements from witnesses and the drivers involved. Both you and the at-fault driver will have a fair chance of giving an account of what happened. The team of Milwaukee car accident lawyer at MacGillis Wiemer, LLC, can help you understand your options and build a strong case on your behalf.
Here are some measures you can take after the crash:
- Seek Medical Care After the Crash: The most important thing to do is get medical help as soon as possible. Your health is our priority, and the injuries that you sustained will be collected in your medical reports supporting your claim.
- Keep Your Calm: A car crash can be traumatic, especially when the at-fault driver lies, leaving you fuming. However, getting into an argument or yelling will not help your claim. Witnesses can record the scene, and insurance companies can use this evidence to shift blame. So, what you say and behave after the crash can impact your credibility.
- Be Consistent With Your Statements: Throughout the legal procedure, you will be asked to repeat your side of the truth multiple times. Be honest and consistent to maintain your credibility.
- Avoid Leaving the Crash Site: In Wisconsin, leaving the crash site is unlawful, and it presents you as at fault. If the driver tries to take off from the crash site, they are assumed to be guilty and may also face criminal charges. This can significantly impact your case and may lead to additional legal consequences.
Why Do Drivers Lie About Who Caused the Crash?
Drivers often lie about the crash due to the consequences they have to face. The most common reason for car crashes is driver negligence. This can be in the form of not following traffic signals, speeding, driving under the influence of substances, or other reasons. Drivers might lie about car crashes due to the following reasons:
- Fear of legal consequences
- Financial concerns
- Protection of their driving records
- Driving without a valid driver’s license or insurance
What are the Penalties for Misleading Insurance Companies?
Lying and misleading the insurance company is committing insurance fraud in Wisconsin. If convicted, the compensation can be around $2,500 or less, and the offense is classified as a misdemeanor. In case of a claim higher than $2,500, the charge for lying to the insurance company is classified as a Class A felony offense. If an accused is convicted of insurance fraud, it can result in nine months of jail time and a fine of up to $10,000.
Contact MacGillis Wiemer, LLC, To Discuss Your Legal Options
If you have been injured in a car crash and the driver at fault has lied about it, it can cause financial losses or other damages. At MacGillis Wiemer, LLC, our car accident attorneys can gather strong evidence to support your claim. Let us protect you. Call us for consultations.