Though emotions may be running high immediately following your auto accident event, you must try to remain calm, cool, and collected and speak with the other involved driver. If you feel more comfortable, you may wait until a law enforcement officer arrives at the scene to do so. But in the end, you must not neglect to do this. Without further introduction, please follow along to find out why you must exchange information with the other driver and how a proficient Panama City car accident attorney at Manuel & Thompson, PA, can help you execute these next steps carefully.

What should I do before exchanging information at the accident scene?

While exchanging information is a critical component of the standard procedure following your auto accident event, you must remember that your and the other driver’s safety and well-being always come first. With that being said, you should take the following initiatives first:

  1. Check yourself and your passengers for any apparent, serious injuries.
  2. If you can, safely pull your vehicle over to the side of the road or the sidewalk.
  3. Call 911 and ask the dispatcher to send a law enforcement officer to your location.
  4. Turn off your engine, turn on your hazard lights, and wait for the officer to arrive.

Why must I exchange information with the other driver after my accident?

Of note, exchanging information with another driver after an auto accident is mandatory in the state of Florida. Not only that, but it may do nothing but help you recover financial compensation for your incurred damages. This is regardless of whether you file an accident claim with your auto insurance provider or that of the other driver if you believe them to be at fault. And so, for the sake of your future claim, you must exchange the following pieces of information with the other driver:

  • Full name and contact information (i.e., phone number).
  • Driver’s license number, license plate number, and car tag numbers.
  • Make, model, color, and year of the vehicle.
  • Auto insurance company name and policy number.

Then, for your records and to better supplement your claim, it is in your best interest to take a moment and jot down observations you make of the scene. You may do this on your own, without the need for further collaboration or interaction with the other driver. Such supplemental evidence may include the following:

  • The name and badge number of the responding law enforcement officer.
  • A copy of the accident report written by the officer.
  • Photos and videos of your visible injuries, vehicle damages, and the overall scene.
  • The full names and contact information of eyewitnesses present on the scene.

To conclude, a talented Panama City auto accident attorney from Manuel & Thompson, PA, is willing to offer further clarification on this issue. So please do not hesitate to seek out our services. We look forward to helping you.