to not lie on false insurance claim- what would you have done?

[fuckinwankinbankers]

NCd for obvious reasons.

Recently I was the sole witness to an accident. Was walking along my road just before a T junction- next thing, this car comes over the hill, literally flying through the air, and lands smack bang against a lamppost.

The 20-something driver gets out, along with his girlfriend, and starts laughing hysterically at the wrecked bonnet. I recognised him as a neighbour. Ran up to help, checked they were unhurt etc. then went on my way as I had an appointment.

Next thing the driver gets in touch, saying he wanted me to say I'd also seen three mates of his getting out of the back. Apparently they were all going to claim for injuries.

The insurance company took a statement- I was too much of a wimp to lie and told them just what I'd seen. Pissed-off text from driver comes a few days later saying the insurance co had reported 'inconsistencies in the witness statement'. The matter was closed.

At the time it felt like the right thing to do-It was maybe 10 yards ahead of me and I shudder to think what would have happened if I'd left the house a few minutes earlier.

Now I feel like maybe I was being unnecessarily obstructive. Is there any actual legal punishment for witness fraud?

I probably shouldn't feel guilty for having told the truth, but give me your opinion.

[BeautifulMaudOHara]

Cheeky bastards shouldn't have asked you to lie
Your integrity is intact
Ignore him

[BeautifulMaudOHara]

And why on earth would you feel guilty? He should.

[nocoolnamesleft]

Well done on not submitting a fraudulent witness statement.

[fruityb]

You'd have been aiding a false claim - fraud essentially. You've done the right thing, I wouldn't lie for anyone on something like that for fear of what would happen if I was caught out! And it's utterly appalling to be asked to do that!

[Planty18]

You shouldn't feel guilty for not committing fraud because your neighbour asked you to, no. It is serious and they put you in a very difficult position. You did the right thing I would say. I hope they don't give you a hard time, it could have been much more serious as you say.

[Mouikey]

You've said it yourself... You shouldn't feel guilty for telling the truth. This thing happens so much that all us other mugs then have to pay more for insurance too.