Because an auto accident can catch you so off guard, it can be easy to forget to exchange information with the other driver. Even if you remember to exchange information, it can be easy to forget all of the details you will need. But getting important information from the other driver is essential if you plan to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
To help, we have created this guide on how to exchange information at the scene of a car accident in Alabama. To learn more, keep reading. And for help with your car accident case, reach out to the experienced lawyers at Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C. Call us at (205) 933-1500 or use our online contact form.
Why It’s Important To Exchange Information After a Car Crash
Before we get into how to exchange information at the scene of a car accident, let’s look at why. Getting specific details from the other driver in your crash is a critically important step to take for the following reasons.
This information will help you locate and contact the driver later on. If you don’t get identifying information, the driver could simply disappear. That would leave you with less of a chance of recovering compensation.
If you plan to file a claim through your insurance policy, your insurer will want the other driver’s contact and insurance information.
If you plan to sue the other driver for your injuries, you will need to know their address and other details to send them a demand letter.
What To Do Before Exchanging Information
Although exchanging information at the scene of a car accident is essential, it is not the very first thing you should do after a crash. Before you exchange information with the other driver, take the following steps:
- Assess Your Injuries: If you have serious injuries, immediately call 911 and request an ambulance to take you to an emergency room or trauma center.
- Check on Your Passengers: Make sure your passengers are OK. If they have serious injuries, seek emergency medical care.
- Get Your Car To a Safe Spot: If you are not seriously injured and your car is still operable, move it out of the way of traffic and off of the road.
- Call 911: Even if you and your passengers have no visible injuries, call 911 so a police officer can respond to the scene of the crash and create a crash report.
Information You Need After an Alabama Auto Accident
Once you have checked for serious injuries, moved to safety, and called 911, you can exchange information with the other driver. Make sure you and the other driver are standing in a safe place before exchanging details.
Here are the pieces of information you need to get from the other driver:
- Full legal name
- Phone number
- Current address
- License plate number
- Driver’s license number
- Make, model, and color of the other vehicle
- The last four digits of the vehicle identification number of the other car
- Insurance company
- Insurance policy number
If the driver’s insurance card names a policyholder other than the driver, you also need to get the contact information of that person.
While you are talking about the above details, do not admit any fault in the accident. Just focus on getting the details you need. This will help preserve your chance to file a lawsuit later on.
What To Do After Exchanging Information
After you have exchanged information at the scene of your car accident, you need to gather other details that could become evidence in your future insurance claim or lawsuit. For example, take photos and videos of your injuries, your vehicle, and the accident scene, if possible.
If you did not call an ambulance, you still need to see a doctor as soon as possible after your crash. A doctor can ensure that you are not seriously injured and document any injuries you do have. This medical record of your injuries will play an essential role as you pursue compensation for your crash.
Finally, if you are interested in seeking compensation for your accident, speak with a car accident lawyer.
Contact a Trusted Alabama Car Accident Lawyer
Getting the right information after a car accident is an essential first step on your road to recovery. The next step is talking to a lawyer who can help you recover the full compensation you deserve.
At Belt, Bruner, & Barnett P.C., we know how stressful life is after a car accident. We are here to take that stress away and help you understand your legal options for getting your life back. To discuss your case with an experienced lawyer, contact us.
Give us a call at (205) 933-1500 or contact us online today.
