Before consulting with a Washington DC motorcycle accident attorney, getting information from the other party involved in your accident is one of the most important things you can do. Exchanging driver and insurance information after a motorcycle accident may seem like an obvious and easy first step to take, but don’t take it for granted. It is equally important to prevent potential insurance fraud or identity theft by protecting your personal information.
In 2012, The National Association of Insurance Commissioners performed a survey of drivers that found most people don’t know what information to share when they have been involved in a motorcycle, auto, or other vehicle accident. For example, 38% of drivers surveyed believed they should provide their driver’s license number to the other party after an accident. Today, your identity can be stolen with a simple swipe of your credit card, so it makes sense that providing your license number and other identifying information to a complete stranger can be extremely risky. Many states require that certain information be provided after a motorcycle accident; however, there is generally a provision allowing this information to be provided to a Washington DC motorcycle accident attorney, or a police officer or other law enforcement official. If you must give substantial personal information to comply with state laws, give it to a police officer, not the other driver.
It is best to provide:
- Your full name
- Your insurance information: the name and contact number of your provider.
It is dangerous to provide:
- Your Social Security Number
- Your home address
- A copy of your driver’s license
Also be wary of any driver who asks to photograph your license. Not only does your license contain personal information that you may not wish to share, but a photograph of your license can be used to create a fake identification used for identity theft. Your driver’s license number can also be used fraudulently, so be cautious.
Here’s another worrisome statistic from the NAIC’s survey of drivers: almost 20% of those surveyed believe the police should be called only if there is an injured party. Calling the police after a motorcycle accident is an important way to protect your claim and your identity. For one thing, police assistance will likely deter any potential fraud or identity theft. Officers will also facilitate the information exchange so that you know exactly what to provide and what to withhold.
If the at-fault driver is pressuring you for information, don’t be intimidated. Give your name and insurance information – the rest will be dealt with by your insurance company or your Motorcycle accident attorney in Washington DC. However, don’t be afraid to ask the other party for their information. It is especially important in a motorcycle accident claim to get a name, phone number, and insurance provider information. If you are the victim of a hit and run accident, make sure to get the car or motorcycle’s tag number. With this information, the police can likely find the responsible driver.
Motorcycle accidents can cause not only physical harm, but also financial and legal issues. If you have been injured in a motorcycle collision in Prince George’s County, you may need a personal injury attorney to negotiate your claim. Be sure to keep accident information in a safe place – your attorney will need this information to open a claim for you.