In the ideal situation, after a car accident, all parties exchange information, including personal names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance policy data, so that the proper processing of claims can take place. Yet, that does not always happen, and in situations where it does not, victims could be unsure what to do next. Typically, if information is not exchanged for any reason, that could make filing a claim against that party difficult. A Butte car accident lawyer from Everett Cook Law can help you with your case.
What Happens When Information Is Not Exchanged?
In situations where drivers do not share information, and one potentially leaves the scene, it may seem impossible for the other driver to seek compensation. Keep in mind that, in situations where the other driver is responsible, the police will seek them out to hold them accountable. Yet, what you need to remember is that if information is not exchanged as it should be, the other party may not take responsibility for the accident, and their insurance may not outright cover it.
In this situation, you will need to prove that the other party caused the accident. A police report can help with this, but it can still be rather challenging. You will need to get the other driver’s information, which may be possible if the police can find them or you can supply any identification such as the license plate number of the car.
In these situations, it does take longer to pursue compensation for your losses. There is a risk that you may not be able to find the other driver. Yet, in every case like this, working with an attorney may help to improve your outcome.
What You Should Do After This Type of Incident
If you are one of the many people hurt in a car accident caused by another person, there are several things to keep in mind:
- Contact the police before leaving the scene of the incident. Provide the police with all the information you have.
- If the other party will not provide their name or contact information, take a photo of the car, license plate tag, and even of that party if you can do so in a safe manner. This information could be helpful later.
- Let the police handle the tracking down of the other party. In the meantime, contact your insurance company to file a claim through your uninsured insurance policy if you have it in place. The insurance company will work to find the at-fault party as well.
- Take care of yourself. Get the medical care you need and stay in close contact with your accident attorney to pursue compensation for your losses.
When people at fault for a car accident do not share information, it becomes the victim’s responsibility to find that information from the evidence available to them. That is challenging, but with the help of a car accident attorney, it may be possible to track them down and hold them accountable for the losses they caused to you in this accident.