What Happens When You Don’t Exchange Information After an Accident?

Steps to take when you cannot get the other driver’s information after a crash.

Getting into a car accident is stressful, no matter the circumstances. However, when the other driver refuses to cooperate, then things are even worse. If you ever find yourself in this situation, it’s important to stay calm. Here are some of the steps that you should take.

Immediately after the accident, you should take a moment to calm down and assess yourself for injuries. If you have passengers in your car, then you should also check to make sure that they are okay. Please keep in mind that many seemingly minor injuries can actually turn out to be quite serious. So, if you are in doubt, play it safe and contact emergency medical assistance for help.

Once you are assured of your condition, you can try to talk with the other driver. If the other driver is hostile and refuses to share their information with you, then do your best to keep your emotions in check. The last thing that you want to do is escalate the situation.

If the other driver is becoming aggressive, then return to your vehicle, lock your doors and windows, and contact the authorities. While you should always report car accidents to the police, it’s is especially important to do so when the other driver is being contentious. When the police arrive, cooperate with them and allow them to step in and handle the situation. Oftentimes, the police can get the information that you were not able to on your own.

If the other driver leaves the scene of the accident, then this becomes a hit-and-run situation. As the other driver has just committed a felony, your next steps are very important. If you have not already called the police, do so immediately. While you wait for them to arrive, take photos of your car’s damage and the scene of the accident. These pictures could help the police track down the runaway driver. You should also speak to witnesses who can help to corroborate your story. Get their contact information, or encourage them to stay at the scene of the accident so the police can speak to them. The more information the police have, the better their chances of catching the runaway driver.

These are some of the steps that you should take if you get into an accident but cannot get the other driver’s information. Are you looking for more assistance with your auto insurance? If so, then contact the experts at Robert J. Los Insurance Agency in Hamburg, New York. We are ready to assist you with all your car coverage needs today.