What Happens if the Other Driver Lies About the Accident?

If the other driver lies about a car accident in Florida, your claim may be delayed, reduced, or denied. However, insurance companies and courts rely on evidence, not just statements from those involved.

If our seasoned car accident attorneys at The Florida Firm Injury and Accident Lawyers can prove the other driver is lying, they may face severe legal and civil consequences. Stick with us as we describe what happens if the other driver makes a fault statement to officials after an accident.

Does Lying Have an Immediate Impact on Your Claim?

Yes. When stories conflict, it turns your case into a disputed liability accident. Insurers may pause payouts or initially deny your claim while investigating who is responsible for the collision. You must rely on physical proof, such as the official Florida Traffic Crash Report, 911 calls, scene photos, traffic camera footage, and independent witness statements, to contradict their story.

Would the Other Driver Face Legal Consequences for Lying?

While we cannot guarantee the other driver would face legal consequences for lying about an accident, deliberately making false statements or providing fake information about an accident could result in severe penalties here in Florida. Under Florida Statutes § 817.234, presenting false or misleading information regarding a motor vehicle claim is a third-degree felony. It is punishable by up to 5 years in state prison, substantial fines, and mandatory restitution for all costs associated with the fraud.

Lying to law enforcement in an official police report or falsifying information could also lead to charges for providing a false report or obstructing justice. If they lie under oath in court, they can also be charged with perjury. A court or insurer could fine a fraudulent claimant up to $5,000 for a first offense, $5,000 to $10,000 for a second, and up to $15,000 for subsequent offenses.

Steps to Take If the Other Driver Lied

If you believe the other driver lied about the accident, the steps you take could make all the difference to the success of your claim. Make these moves as quickly as possible:

• Take photos of all vehicle damage, road debris, and the surrounding area.
• Avoid arguing with the driver on-site but be thoroughly honest with the police so your account is properly entered into the crash report.
• Avoid arguing with the driver on-site. Just be honest with the police so your account is properly entered into the crash report.
• File a claim with your own insurance company immediately and give them the evidence you were able to collect.
• Do not provide a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company before consulting with a savvy car accident lawyer.

Talk to Us If You Think the Other Driver Is Lying About Your Accident

If you suspect the other driver lied about the accident, you need trusted legal advice. Schedule a free consultation with an award-winning Colling Gilbert Wright team member today to learn more.

The burden of proving fault falls on you, and legal representation would help immensely. Put our decades of courtroom experience on your side and let us expose the other driver’s false narrative. Do not let false stories prevent you from receiving the compensation you are entitled to under the law.