In Georgia, the law requires that you identify yourself and exchange information after a car accident, but exactly what information should drivers exchange?
You and the other driver should exchange the following:
- Full names
- Physical addresses
- Phone numbers
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Insurance provider and policy number
You should also:
- Note the make, model, and color of the other vehicle
- Take note of the other driver’s physical appearance
- Identify nearby buildings that might have captured the accident on security cameras
- Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident
How Do I Know the Driver is Giving Real Information?
Unfortunately, there may be some drivers who try to give false insurance or identification information. The best way to safeguard against this is to gather plenty of evidence at the accident scene, including:
- Pictures of the accident and auto damage
- Pictures of the other driver’s car
- Pictures of the other driver’s license plate number
If you’re worried about the trustworthiness of the other driver, or there is significant damage to the vehicles, you should call law enforcement to the scene and get legal documentation of the accident.
Related Blog: What Evidence Should You Collect After an Atlanta Car Crash?
How to Ask for the Other Driver’s Information
If you’ve never been in a car accident before, then it’s important to know that exchanging information with the other driver is standard, so you shouldn’t be afraid to ask.
However, it’s difficult to speak with the other driver when they’re angry, and emotions may certainly be running high following a car accident. Keep the following in mind:
- Show Empathy, But Don’t Apologize: Showing sympathy to the other driver can ease the tension, but don’t apologize or take responsibility for the accident. You won’t really know who’s at fault until evidence has been gathered. Apologizing could make you liable for damages.
- Don’t Chat too Much: Anything you say to the other driver can be used against you by insurance companies, so don’t feel like you need to make small talk. Focus on gathering the information you need, and giving your information, as well.
- Stay Calm: You might be feeling worked up, too, especially if you did not cause the accident. Do your best to stay calm so you don’t escalate the situation.
Related Blog: What Should You Say to the Other Driver After a Car Crash?
Why Do Drivers Exchange Information?
Drivers need to exchange information so they can file insurance claims. You’ll file a claim with the other driver’s insurance company, so you need their provider information, policy number, and the driver’s general information. They need all that info from you, too.
If you don’t collect the other driver’s information, you will not be able to file an insurance claim.
What if the Other Driver is Uncooperative?
Sometimes, the other driver just can’t be reasoned with. You might encounter the following situations:
- The other driver refuses to give you their information
- The other driver flees the scene
- The other driver is hostile or threatening, and you’re worried about giving them your personal information
For any of these scenarios, it’s best to call law enforcement to the scene so they can provide guidance on what to do. If you’re ever in a car accident, it’s helpful to snap a photo of the driver’s license plate before you do anything else, which protects you if the other driver decides to speed away from the accident scene.
Related Blog: What To Do After a Car Accident in Georgia
What if the Insurance Company Denies My Claim?
In our experience dealing with Georgia insurance companies, we can tell you that insurance providers will look for all sorts of excuses to either deny your claim or avoid paying you a settlement that covers all your damages. They’ll use excuses such as:
- The other driver denies how the accident occurred
- You didn’t call law enforcement to the scene
- You waited too long to visit a doctor after the accident
- You don’t have your receipts for auto repair costs
If you receive an unfair settlement offer from a Georgia insurance provider, it’s best to contact Schneider Williamson Car Accident & Personal Injury Attorneys and schedule a free consultation.
We’re a leading personal injury firm with an outstanding track record of helping clients earn fair compensation from insurance providers or other parties that were liable for the accident and all your costs associated with it.
