What Information Should I Exchange with The Other Driver Involved in The Accident?
In Florida, the information you must exchange, should you be involved in a car accident, are:
- Driver’s License Information: You will know the other motorist’s full name, license number, and address by getting their license details. If necessary, you might also need to get their contact number for easy communication. Getting the names of their passengers may also be necessary for insurance reasons.
- Vehicle Registration Certificate: To confirm the other driver’s identity and insurance information, you must exchange vehicle registration information.
- Insurance Details: Although Florida adheres to the personal injury protection insurance (PIP) system, meaning that the injured parties are required to present a PIP claim with their insurance provider instead of the liable motorist’s insurance provider, you still need to obtain the other motorist’s insurance information.
If your hospital expenses from the accident go past your maximum PIP coverage and you experience significant injuries, you may be permitted to bypass the no-fault insurance system. That means you can file an injury claim against the motorist’s liability insurance.
In addition, keep in mind that PIP doesn’t provide coverage for vehicular damage, so you may have to file a property damage claim with the other motorist’s insurance provider to recoup compensation to replace or repair your vehicle. Discuss your situation with a Florida car accident attorney to learn the best way to recover money to cover your accident-related damages.
What If the Other Driver is Not Around or Flees The Accident Scene in Florida?
If you hit a parked car, park in a safe area and try to search for the driver. If you see the owner, exchange details with each other. If you cannot locate the owner, you should place a written note somewhere that can be easily seen by the owner. On that note, write your full name, contact information, and a statement of the accident's circumstances. If the accident leads to an accumulated $500 worth of damages or more, you must also let the police know immediately and file a report as soon as possible.
If you are unable to exchange details with the other motorist, a Florida car accident lawyer can help you find them. The other motorist might leave the crash scene immediately to evade any penalties. Sometimes, motorists may attempt to persuade the other party that it isn’t necessary to exchange any details and that resolving the matter without any insurance or legal help would be simpler for everybody involved. Although this might seem like a tempting option, it is in your best interest to exchange details with them.
If the other motorist escapes from the scene of the accident before the authorities come or after declining to give out their information, contact a Florida car accident attorney. Your attorney will examine the scene, talk to witnesses, and check surveillance recordings, among others, to determine the identity of the other driver.
Talk to a Skilled Florida Car Accident Lawyer Now
Need help with your injury claim or locating the other driver involved in a car crash? The Florida car accident lawyers at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos are ready to help. Dial 727-441-9030 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our Florida car accident lawyers.