Car accidents can be stressful and overwhelming experiences, but knowing what steps to take immediately following a crash can help you remain calm and go through the necessary motions. Knowing what information to exchange after an auto accident is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring that the collision is handled properly. California, like most states, requires that drivers involved in an accident exchange certain information with one another. For more information, continue reading and speak with a knowledgeable San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer today.
What Information Should I Exchange After an Auto Accident in CA?
Whether the accident resulted in property damage, injury, or death, it is crucial that you pull over at the scene once you are involved in a collision. Under California state law you must stop or risk being charged with a hit and run. While at the scene of the accident, you should be taking photos of the damage to the vehicles and the environment around you. It is essential that you and the other driver(s) involved exchange personal information as well.
Make sure to share the following information, and collect it from the other parties involved.
- Your full name
- Your home address
- Your driver’s license number and information
- Your vehicle license plate, VIN, and registration information
- Your insurance provider, policy number, and coverage date
California Vehicle Code 16025 legally requires the exchange of certain information including the driver’s name, current residence, driver’s license number, vehicle identification number, and the current address of the registered owner. However, the other information listed above is equally as important. The more details you have, the better off you will be dealing with the aftermath of the accident.
Why is Exchanging Information Important?
Exchanging information after an accident is important for a few reasons, one of the most important being to ensure you are in compliance with the law. Under VC 16025, any person who fails to adhere to the requirements of the section is guilty of an infraction and can be fined. By exchanging information you are protecting yourself legally.
In addition, exchanging information ensures that your insurance provider has everything they need to assess the accident and process a claim without delay. Without the other party’s information, you may not be able to collect compensation for your associated damages.
Exchanging information and thoroughly documenting the accident can prevent disputes about liability down the line. If you end up filing a personal injury lawsuit, having these details will also aid your pursuit of compensation.
Failing to exchange the necessary information can complicate insurance claims and legal processes, and could even lead to penalties. To learn more about what steps to take after being involved in an accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer today.
