Learner Driver Learns the Hard Way: Lying Isn't Worth It

Court orders driver to pay ICBC out of pocket for totaling car

VANCOUVER, June 16 /CNW/ - The case of a young Surrey woman serves as a timely reminder to new drivers about the perils of ignoring the requirements of British Columbia's Graduated Licensing Program.

A BC Provincial Court judge in Surrey ordered Michelle Larocque to reimburse ICBC more than $26,000 for lying about the circumstances of a crash that destroyed her father's vehicle. She was also fined $1,000, after pleading guilty to providing a false statement to ICBC under the Insurance (Motor Vehicle) Act.

Larocque was 19 years-old and had a Learner licence in August 2005 when she got behind the wheel of the leased 2002 Lincoln, alone. Under the Graduated Licensing Program, a Learner is required - whenever driving - to be accompanied by an adult aged 25 or older who has a valid Class 5 driver's licence.

The investigation determined Larocque crashed into another vehicle and later lied to ICBC about the mishap, claiming that she was not alone in the car. The other driver and three independent witnesses to the crash all told ICBC she was alone in the vehicle.

"Normally, ICBC would bring a separate court action against the driver to recover payments made on the insurance claim," said Steven Tripp, Manager of ICBC's Special Investigations Unit. "But Provincial Court Judge Gulbransen ordered Ms. Larocque to pay restitution in the amount of $26,131. The message here, clearly, is that lying to avoid a hike in premiums or a fine just isn't worth it."

ICBC goes after fraudsters; we recommend criminal charges where appropriate, and take them to court to recover any dollars paid out for false claims.

The public can help combat fraud and help keep their auto insurance premiums low and stable. Anyone with information regarding a suspicious, exaggerated or fraudulent claim is encouraged to call ICBC's fraud tips line at 604-661-6844 or 1-800-661-6844, toll free from anywhere in the province. Callers can remain anonymous.

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