In San Diego, you have the complete right to file for compensation with the insurance company if you face a motorcycle accident. However, the situation can turn complex if the at-fault driver lies about the circumstances. Your compensation can be put at risk if the heir insurance company believes the misrepresented story of the other driver. Thus, you must know your rights and pull yourself out of this situation with the help of an experienced lawyer. Here, we are about to discuss how you must handle such a situation so that the tables turn in your favor.
Why Would an At-Fault Driver Lie?
Often, the at-fault driver lies about the motorcycle accident to avoid liability. Also, if the insurance premiums increase or they have to face legal penalties, they might lie due to their recklessness. Getting involved in illegal activities or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can also persuade them to lie in front of the insurance company. However, these lies are marked as wrongful blame, complicating the case and reducing your claim amount.
Steps to Take if the At-Fault Driver Lies
If you suspect that the at-fault driver is lying to their insurance company, you must prepare a solid case for yourself. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Do not Get into a Fight
Irrespective of how toxic the situation is, you need to keep calm. Try to avoid arguments with the other driver, as they might escalate the situation. Your focus should be on gathering evidence as soon as possible and not leaving any place to discuss with the authorities and insurers later on. Even the slightest delay can cause you to not know how the case can turn.
- Inform the Police
To get an unbiased report, you must report the motorcycle accident immediately to the nearest police station. The officer in charge will gather evidence and witness statements from the scene. Later on, you can get this official accident report with the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer and submit it to the insurance company to justify your claim. You can also get in-depth information about the road conditions and witness accounts to argue against the false claims made by the at-fault driver.
- Seek Medical Attention and Document Injuries
You must get a medical report immediately after the accident and gather proper documentation of your injuries. This will help to determine the amount of pain and health issues you have to go through due to the accident. The medical reports will make it harder for the insurance company to decline your claim based on the lies of the other driver.
- Gather Document and Witness Information
You must take photos of your motorcycle and damage to all vehicles involved in the accident. Capture if there were any skid marks or traffic signs that would support your version of events. You can also collect a neutral statement from the eyewitnesses, proving that the other driver is lying about the accident scene.
Final Words
You must be very careful when dealing with a dishonest, at-fault driver. Hire an experienced lawyer to negotiate on your behalf and plan legal strategies to face the challenge. They can provide solid evidence for achieving fair compensation.