Can I Remain Anonymous If I Witness a Car Accident in NYC?

Witness testimonies can be among the most convincing types of evidence in claims, lawsuits, and trials involving accidents. However, some witnesses may be more believable or trustworthy than others. Plus, witnesses may sometimes contradict one another. The problem is that in most motor vehicle cases, the only individuals present, hence, that witness the accident are the drivers.

Likewise, the drivers will attempt to blame the other for the accident and never admit that they caused the crash. Because of this, the drivers’ statements may be biased. The drivers may also twist the truth to avoid being held responsible for the car accident.

If you witnessed a car accident and are considering going forward, but only if you remain anonymous, you can expect the other party to question your credibility. Consequently, this may work against the case of the injured victim since witness credibility is extremely vital.

What Makes a Witness Credible?

Witness testimonies are crucial because even if there are other pieces of physical evidence available, witnesses are people who can explain the evidence and the events of an accident to create a clearer narrative that can convince the court. Likewise, lawyers, juries, courts, and insurance carriers still consider witness statements as critical evidence, despite the issues surrounding false recollection.

But a lot of factors must be considered when determining the credibility of a witness. These factors primarily include the following:

• Whether the witness testimony is clear, convincing, and consistent
• Whether the witness is against or biased for either party in the case
• Whether the witness has a financial or personal stake in the case – for example, do they have a financial or personal relationship with either party?
• Whether the witness has a reputation for being a trustworthy or honest individual
• Whether there’s any other evidence that contradicts or supports the witness testimony, which can include the witness’s previous testimonies that contradict their current testimony
• Whether the witness’s demeanor and appearance undermine or support their credibility. For instance, do they appear sure or unsure of their statements?
• Whether the witness clearly witnessed the accident from start to finish
• Whether the witness’s health, mainly their eyesight and memory recall, can be trusted.
• Whether the witness was intoxicated or drugged at the time of the accident

Reach Out to a Skilled NYC Car Accident Attorney

If you were a witness to a car accident, knowing what you now know about witness credibility, think twice before remaining an anonymous witness. Put yourself in the shoes of the individual that got seriously injured in the accident who’s counting on your testimony to help them secure maximum compensation for their damages.

Do you have any concerns or questions about motor vehicle accidents, whether you witnessed one or were involved in a crash, you can get in touch with the Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman, P.C. law firm for guidance. You can set up a free case consultation with one of our skilled NYC car accident attorneys by calling 212-285-3300 or reaching us online.