Protecting Your Rights When the Other Driver Gives a False Version of Events

After a car accident in Mississippi, you expect everyone involved to tell the truth. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. If the at-fault driver lies about what happened, it can put your claim at risk—especially if you’re seeking compensation for injuries or property damage. Insurance companies may hesitate to pay, and liability may be disputed. However, you’re not powerless. There are specific steps you can take to protect your rights and build a strong case when the other driver’s version of events doesn’t match reality.

Why a Driver Might Lie After a Car Accident

Some drivers lie to avoid taking responsibility, especially if they were:

• Driving without insurance or a valid license

• Under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Distracted or texting while driving

• Speeding or violating traffic laws

• Facing points on their license or a history of accidents

Lying might seem like a way to dodge financial or legal consequences, but it can lead to serious problems—especially for injured victims seeking fair compensation.

How to Protect Your Rights If the Other Driver Is Lying

1. Call the Police and Get a Crash Report

Always call law enforcement to the scene, even if the damage appears minor. A Mississippi Uniform Crash Reportbecomes a key piece of evidence. The responding officer will gather statements, document the scene, and sometimes issue citations. If the other driver lies, the officer’s neutral observations can help support your version of events.

If you suspect the other driver is lying to police, calmly provide your version of events, correct any false information on the record, and ask the officer to include your statement in the report.

2. Collect Evidence at the Scene

Your best defense against a dishonest driver is solid evidence. If you’re able, take the following steps at the scene:

• Take clear photos of vehicle damage, license plates, debris, and the surrounding area

• Get contact information from all witnesses and ask if they’re willing to provide a statement

• Write down everything you remember about how the crash occurred

• Note the positions of the vehicles, traffic signs, and weather or lighting conditions

This information can help counter false statements later.

3. Request a Copy of the Police Report

Once the report is available, get a copy and review it carefully. If it supports your version of events or includes inconsistencies in the other driver’s statement, it becomes valuable evidence during the insurance claims process or in court.

If the report contains incorrect information, you can request a correction or add a written supplement to clarify your side.

4. Preserve All Evidence Related to the Accident

Keep records of:

• Medical visits and diagnoses

• Car repair estimates or invoices

• Communications with insurance companies

• Witness statements and photos

• Dash cam footage, if available

The more documentation you have, the stronger your position will be if the insurance company questions fault.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your own insurer, even if the other driver was clearly at fault. Provide all the evidence you’ve gathered and explain that the other driver is giving a false version of events. Your insurance adjuster may perform an independent investigation and can also help challenge the other driver’s claims.

6. Watch What You Say to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

If you’re contacted by the other driver’s insurer, be careful about what you say. Do not give a recorded statement without legal advice. Insurers may try to twist your words or pressure you to accept partial fault.

When False Statements Lead to Denied or Delayed Claims

If the insurance company sides with the other driver or refuses to offer fair compensation because of conflicting accounts, legal action may be the next step. In Mississippi, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. A lawyer can help gather additional evidence, interview witnesses, and bring in accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case.

Why Legal Representation Can Make a Difference

When you’re dealing with a dishonest driver, a legal team can help level the playing field. Attorneys can:

• Obtain and review police reports

• Subpoena traffic camera footage or 911 records

• Conduct depositions to expose inconsistencies in the other driver’s story

• Hire accident reconstructionists to provide scientific analysis

• Deal with insurance companies that are reluctant to pay due to conflicting accounts

Call Attorney Bill Kellum For a Free Consultation!

If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Mississippi and the other driver is lying about what happened, your claim could be at risk. The attorneys at Kellum Law Firm, P.C. are ready to help protect your rights and build the strongest case possible. Call our Jackson office at (601) 969-2709 or our Port Gibson office at (601) 590-9000 to schedule a consultation and discuss your options today.