What if the At-Fault Driver Lies About Their Role in the Accident?
The majority of car accidents in Georgia are caused by driver error. This can include speeding, distracted driving, running through an intersection or a red light, or driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you were involved in a car accident that was caused by another driver, you may be eligible for financial compensation by filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the other motorist lied about their role in the accident, this can make the claims process more complicated.
In most cases, negligent drivers lie about their role in a car accident because they want to avoid liability for the crash. As a result, when the police officer at the scene asks questions about the events leading up to the crash, the at-fault driver may lie or intentionally avoid sharing information that would help prove their role in the accident. The following are examples of common driving behaviors that at-fault motorists lie about in an effort to avoid being ticketed, fined, or arrested:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- Tailgating
- Running a red light
- Drunk driving
How Do I Prove That the Other Motorist Lied About the Accident?
If the other driver is clearly lying in an effort to avoid liability, you can take proactive steps to help prove that the other driver caused the accident. One of the first things you should do is to start gathering as much evidence as possible if you are physically capable to do so. For example, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, your injuries, damage to other property, skid marks on the road, debris on the road, traffic signs, and weather conditions at the time of the accident. If there were witnesses who saw the accident, ask if they would be willing to provide a statement and get their contact information.
If you have not already done so, you should call 911 and report the accident, particularly if the at-fault driver refuses to take responsibility for the accident or is lying about important details about the crash. The police officer who arrives at the scene will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
It is also recommended that you contact a skilled car accident lawyer who will take the necessary steps to help prove the other driver is liable.
Why Is Proving Fault So Important in Georgia?
Georgia is a “modified” comparative negligence state, which means that you can recover damages against the other driver who was more at fault than you. However, if you were partly to blame, your financial recovery will be reduced by the percentage that corresponds to your share of liability.
If the at-fault driver lies about their role in the accident, this can impact the outcome of your settlement. A dedicated car accident lawyer can thoroughly review your case, help prove the other driver is held, and recommend the best legal course of action.
Savannah Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Can Help Prove You Were Injured by a Negligent Driver
If you have been injured in a car accident and the at-fault driver lied about their role, you are urged to contact our Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law at your earliest convenience. We can thoroughly review the details of your case. To schedule a consultation, call us at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.