In New York, it is required by law for individuals involved in an automobile accident to exchange insurance information. The only time you do not have to share information is if you are physically unable to do so, either because you are incapacitated, unconscious, or dead because of the accident. Further, drivers must also share the following information:
- Their name and current address,
- Their driver’s license number,
- Their vehicle identification number, and
- The vehicle owner’s address.
What Happens if the Other Driver Refuses to Provide Insurance Information?
If the other driver does not provide you with their insurance information after an accident, you can still report the accident and file a claim for the damages. You may have to jump through a few extra hoops to get your claim paid, but an attorney can help track down the driver and secure their insurance information.
At the time of the accident, it is important to take a few photos of the other driver’s vehicle, their license plate, vehicle make and model, and any damages or relevant details from the scene for your insurance claim. Additionally, you will want to write down a description of the other driver. This type of information will only help track the other driver down later. Then immediately call 911 and report the accident. Make sure to tell them the other driver is refusing to provide you with any insurance information.
Reporting an Accident to the State
Sometimes, police officers will not come to the scene of the accident if they feel like it wasn’t that serious. When that happens, you will have to file the accident report independently. Once this form is submitted, you can request the other driver’s insurance information through the DMV. This information should be sent to your insurance company, who will contact the other driver’s insurance company to get coverage for your claim.
Drivers are required to provide insurance information in New York, but some drivers still refuse to do so. In general, drivers who refuse to provide information tend to have high insurance premiums, warrants out for their arrest, or were driving uninsured. This lack of cooperation is not your fault. A skilled car accident attorney can ensure the other driver is found and held accountable.
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If you’ve been injured and someone else is at fault, contact Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. PC and get the wheels of justice spinning for you. Call 212-240-9465 now to schedule your free, in-office consultation.
