Can I Remain Anonymous if I Witness a Car Accident?
Each year, there are over 6 million car accidents, with witnesses providing crucial information regarding the specifics of each ordeal. Understandably, if you witness a car accident, you may want to testify but feel uneasy about revealing your identity. If you choose to retain anonymity, your statement will hold less credibility, lacking the gravitas necessary to help the victim’s case.
Your testimony may be pivotal to supporting a plaintiff’s cause of action, so you will want to take every measure to help the victim receive maximum compensation. If you recently witnessed a crash, you should speak with a PA car accident attorney who can protect your interests.
Reasons to Remain Anonymous as a Witness
Witness identification is important, allowing your testimony to carry the necessary weight to support the plaintiff’s claim. A witness may choose to remain anonymous to protect his or her interests, to avoid damaging personal connections that may become useful in the future, or due to pressure by the defendant.
By remaining anonymous, the opposing party may argue that you are concealing your identity because you have something to hide. The judge or jury may even assume that the plaintiff is partially responsible for the crash, even if evidence suggests otherwise. This could hurt the plaintiff’s case, resulting in his or her compensation being reduced.
What Other Factors Impact Witness Credibility?
While complete anonymity may not be possible in a deposition or on the witness stand, in extenuating circumstances, it may be possible to use a pseudonym if there is a legitimate fear of retaliation. According to the Pennsylvania Rules of Evidence, evidence speaking to a witness’s integrity is only allowed after the person’s integrity has been called into question.
Anonymity is only one factor that impacts a witness’s credibility. Other factors that may impact witness credibility include:
- If you witnessed the entire incident: If you only saw or heard part of the accident, a judge or jury is less likely to consider your testimony when issuing a verdict.
- Consistency of your statement: If your version of events changes slightly each time, the jury is less likely to place weight on your testimony.
- Evidence of sensory impairments: If you have compromised sight or hearing, then your testimony may be placed under heavy scrutiny.
- Your level of impartiality: If there is evidence that you have a bias or prejudice, the veracity of your testimony may be examined.
- Your level of attention during the accident: Many individuals who witness a car accident may be too afraid to get away from danger and notice the intricacies of the event. Your credibility will certainly be attacked if other eyewitnesses provide consistent testimony that does not match your version of events.
As a witness, you want to avoid any behavior that would place your credibility under attack. At HGSK Injury Lawyers, we understand your desire to assist the car accident victim and your fear of retaliation from the defendant. When you meet with our PA car accident attorneys, we will review what you saw and heard, as well as discuss your concerns regarding potential retaliation. Our role is to help you feel secure, allowing you to speak openly about what transpired.
Witness a Collision? Contact Our PA Car Accident Attorneys Today
Eyewitness testimony is vital evidence in car accident cases, especially when there is a scarcity of physical evidence or video recordings. At HGSK Injury Lawyers, our PA car accident lawyers are committed to assisting injury victims while keeping those testifying safe. If you are interested in learning more or want to arrange your free consultation, contact us online or by phone today.