Why Should You Always Collect the Other Driver’s Information in a Fender Bender
Fender-bender accidents are typically known as one of the most minor vehicle accidents. These crashes usually occur at low speeds, resulting in minimal damage or bodily injuries. However, even if you are involved in a fender bender or another type of minor accident, collecting the other driver’s information is still important as you may need it to file a claim and obtain the financial recovery you need to pay for your losses.
Why is it important to collect the other driver’s information in a Springfield fender bender?
Minor car accidents, such as fender benders, can still cause you to feel shaken up, confused, frustrated, and even upset. However, it is crucial that you still take the time to speak with and collect the other driver’s information. Some may think that this is just a normal part of the process, which it is, but it can also be extremely helpful to you when handling the aftermath of your crash.
For example, if you do not collect the other driver’s information after a fender-bender accident, your insurance company or attorney may be unable to find the driver responsible for your injuries. If they do find them and they find out that you do not have any of their information, they might make things even more complicated than they already are by refusing to claim any responsibility or admitting to being in the accident. These events can cause issues if you want to file a claim and obtain compensation for your losses.
In addition, before you can file a claim, you must have substantial evidence to prove that you were involved in an accident and that the other driver is at fault. However, if you do not have the other driver’s information, you may be unable to provide the proof you need, or you may look like you are lying about the accident.
What information must I collect from the other driver after a fender bender?
The information that you need to collect from the other driver after a fender bender or any other type of accident includes:
- Their full name
- Their address
- Their insurance company name
- Their insurance policy number
- Their driver’s license number
- Their vehicle registration
- Their license plate number
- The make, model, year, and color of their vehicle
You should also write down some details about the driver, such as what they look like, what color hair or eyes they have, any visible tattoos or piercings, and what type of clothing they were wearing. This information may help in case they try to lie about their identity.
How do I approach or talk with the other driver?
Even though you may be angry, frustrated, or upset about the accident, it is important to put these feelings aside to approach or talk with the other driver to get the necessary information that you need to file a claim. If you need a few minutes to cool down, you should give yourself time to do this. Then, you should approach the other driver in a cool, calm, and respectful manner.
You can be polite and cordial, but it is important to remember that they are not your friend, and they do not have your best interests in mind. Instead, they are likely listening to anything you say in hopes of using it against you to reduce their level of fault in the accident. Therefore, it is important to approach the conversation with caution, keep it brief, and be straightforward about the information you need.
Do I need to give my information to the other driver too?
Yes, you need to give your information to the other driver too. Although you may know you are not at fault for the accident, the other driver will still ask for your information. Please provide this information and let your attorneys and insurance companies sort the rest out. If you do not give your information, it could look like you left the scene, which means committing a hit-and-run accident. Being accused of leaving the accident scene can result in fines and legal consequences, which could impact or slow down the process of getting the compensation that you need.
What if the other driver refuses to exchange information?
If the other driver refuses to exchange information, you can inform the police about the situation. You should dial 9-1-1 and notify law enforcement about your accident. Once law enforcement arrives, inform them that the other driver is unwilling to exchange information with you.
In some states, such as Missouri, exchanging contact information is legally required after an accident. Therefore, if the other driver refuses to exchange information with you, the police officer can step in and ask for the information, as they must hand it over to authorities to include in the police accident form.
Should I collect anyone else’s information at the scene of the accident?
Exchanging contact information with witnesses at the accident scene is a good idea. Therefore, if you notice anyone who could be a witness, such as a driver, passenger, construction worker, business owner, bystander, pedestrian, or bicyclist, you should strongly consider collecting their contact information. By obtaining this information, you may be able to reach out to them shortly to ask for a statement to back up your facts and support your side of the story. The information that you should collect from witnesses includes:
- Their full name
- Their address
- Their phone number
- What business they own, or what they were doing when they saw your accident occur
- Brief description of what they saw happen
If you were recently involved in a car accident and need help collecting information, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the Springfield car accident attorneys from Glisson Law at your earliest opportunity. While collecting information from the driver immediately after your accident is important, we know and understand that sometimes people are too injured to remember to get every detail. That is where our team comes in, as we understand the complexities of these situations and know what is necessary to build a strong and successful case. Call our office or submit our contact form to schedule a free, no-obligation review at our office today. Although our firm is based in Alton, we proudly serve Belleville, Edwardsville, Springfield, St. Clair and Madison Counties, all of Southwestern Illinois and Missouri.