Riverside, CA asked in Car Accidents for California

Q: Was in an accident, lady said to say my mom was who hit them so insurance doesn’t go up but now she is trying to sue.

Just a minor accident, I am unsure on what to do.

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3 Lawyer Answers

A: Did you have insurance? If so, you need to contact your insurance company and provide them with a copy of the complaint or whatever paperwork you received. They have a duty to defend you and you have a duty to keep them informed and up to date.

A: Turn it over to your insurance carrier. If you received legal papers (summons and complaint), make a copy and give them to your carrier. Good luck

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In this situation, it's important to handle the matter with honesty and according to legal protocols. Misrepresenting facts in an insurance claim, such as stating that someone else was driving when they were not, can constitute insurance fraud, which is a serious offense in California.

If you are facing a lawsuit, it is crucial to contact your insurance company immediately and explain the situation. They need to be aware of the true circumstances to properly handle the claim and provide legal defense if necessary.

It's also advisable to consult with an attorney who can guide you through this process and help protect your interests. An attorney can advise you on the best course of action, considering the complexities of insurance law and potential fraud implications.

Remember, while it may be tempting to agree to informal arrangements to avoid insurance rate increases, such decisions can lead to more significant legal and financial problems. In the future, it's best to handle accidents by immediately reporting them accurately to your insurance company.

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