What Information Should I Exchange Following an Accident in California

You may be aware you have to exchange information with the other driver involved in a collision for insurance purposes, you may not know that this is required by law in California. As such, understanding the information you must share with each party following a collision is critical. The following blog explores the information you should exchange after an accident and the additional steps you can take to protect yourself in these difficult times with the assistance of our Irvine auto accident lawyers.

What Information Must I Share With the Other Driver?

When you are involved in an accident with another driver in California, it is imperative to understand that you are required to exchange insurance information following the collision, regardless of who you believe is at fault.

California Vehicle Code 16025 provides guidance on what information must be exchanged following a collision, however, there is additional information that may prove helpful later in your case. Information that may be helpful to provide and obtain from the other driver or drivers involved includes the following:

• The names and addresses of those involved
• The names and addresses of the vehicle’s registered owner, if not the driver
• Phone numbers of those involved 
• Drivers’ license numbers of the drivers 
• The make, model, color, license plate, and VIN of the vehicles
• The auto insurance carrier, the carrier’s address, and the policy number for each driver

It is imperative to understand the importance of providing this information. In the event a driver refuses to share these details with you or is combative at the scene, you should wait until the police arrive as they can help you obtain the necessary information from the other party. Additionally, if the driver responsible for the collision flees the scene without exchanging these details, you should not follow them. Instead, contact the police and provide as much detail about the vehicle as possible. You should remain at the scene to wait for a police officer to compile a report

What Additional Steps Should I Take After a Collision?

After an accident, there are several additional steps you can take to help protect yourself. Generally, one of the most important things you can do is seek immediate medical attention. This is imperative, even if you feel okay in the moments following the crash. Seeking prompt medical care will help you receive proper treatment for any injuries endured while establishing medical care immediately after the accident.

If you are physically able to, you should take as many photos and videos of the accident scene as possible. Doing so can help capture the damage to the vehicles, road conditions, and other important factors that can be used as evidence to aid in your case.

By far, the most important step you can take following an auto accident is to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney. At California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, we understand the complexities of these circumstances, which is why we will do everything in our power to guide you through these difficult matters. When you need help, our team is ready. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.