Getting into a car accident is already stressful. But when the other driver refuses to share their insurance information, things get even harder. Whether they’re hiding something or just being difficult, you need to know what steps to take to protect yourself. This guide explains what you can do, what the law says, and how to get the help you need.
Why Insurance Information Matters
Insurance details are important because they help you file a claim. If you’re not at fault, you may need the other driver’s insurance to pay for repairs, medical bills, or other costs. Without this info, it becomes harder to recover your losses.
Insurance also helps prove who is responsible. It connects the driver to their policy, which makes it easier for police and your insurance company to figure things out.
Is It Illegal to Refuse to Provide Insurance?
Yes, in most states, drivers must give their insurance info after an accident. This includes their insurance company’s name and policy number. Refusing to do so can lead to fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges.
In some states, like Louisiana, drivers who don’t share their insurance can be charged with a misdemeanor. In Florida, refusing can come with fines and even arrest in some cases. Texas can fine drivers up to $500 for not providing their info.
Why Do Some Drivers Refuse?
People may refuse to give their insurance information for several reasons:
- They don’t have insurance at all
- Their policy is expired
- They’re afraid of higher rates
- They have a suspended license or registration
- They were driving under the influence
- They’re angry or panicked
Whatever the reason, it doesn’t give them the right to keep that info from you.
What to Do if the Other Driver Won’t Cooperate
You still have options if the other driver refuses to give you their insurance information. Take these steps right away:
Call the Police: The police can come to the scene and file a report. Officers will ask both parties for their documents and can include the other driver’s insurance info in the report. That way, you may be able to get the information later even if the driver refused at the time.
Document the Scene: Use your phone to take pictures and videos. Focus on:
- Damage to both vehicles
- The license plates
- Any injuries
- Road signs and street names
- Weather or road conditions
This will help prove what happened if you need to file a claim or lawsuit later.
Get Witness Statements: If anyone saw the accident, ask for their name and phone number. Their statements may help your case, especially if the other driver won’t cooperate.
Write Down the License Plate: Even if the other driver refuses to talk to you, you can still take down their license plate number. This may help your insurer or attorney find out who the driver is and what coverage they have.
Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company: Let your insurance company know about the crash, even if you’re not at fault. Share what happened and explain that the other driver wouldn’t provide their insurance info. Your own insurance company may still be able to help you get compensation.
How to Get the Other Driver’s Insurance Information
If the driver didn’t give you their insurance info, there are still ways to get it:
File a Police Report
The police report may list the other driver’s insurance details. If not, the report still supports your claim and may help your insurance company or attorney contact the other driver.
Contact the DMV
In some cases, Nevada’s Department of Motor Vehicles may be able to give you the driver’s insurance info if you provide the license plate and accident details.
Get Help from a Lawyer
A personal injury lawyer can track down the other driver’s information using legal tools. They can also guide you if you need to sue the other driver or file a claim against your own coverage.
What if the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
If the driver doesn’t have insurance, or you can’t get their info, you still have some options:
Use Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your own policy can help pay for medical bills and damages. This is helpful when the other driver has no insurance or refuses to share it.
Use Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Some states require PIP coverage, which can help pay for your medical costs no matter who was at fault.
File a Lawsuit
If needed, you can take legal action against the other driver to recover your losses. A lawyer can help you collect evidence and build your case.
What Happens if You Don’t Take Action?
If you don’t collect the right info or report the accident, you may have a harder time proving your case. This can delay or even block your ability to get compensation. Even if the damage seems small, it’s better to act quickly and cover all your bases.
Comparing Penalties in Different States
Here’s a quick look at how some states handle drivers who refuse to give insurance info:
- Nevada: Drivers must provide insurance details after a crash; refusal can lead to fines, suspension of vehicle registration, and additional penalties depending on the situation
- Texas: Fines up to $500
- California: Can be charged with a misdemeanor
- Florida: May face fines and criminal charges
Each state is different, so it helps to know your local laws or ask a lawyer.
FAQs
Is it illegal to refuse to give insurance after a crash?
Yes, in most states it’s against the law and can lead to fines or other penalties.
Can I still file a claim if the other driver won’t give insurance info?
Yes. With the police report, license plate number, and your insurance company’s help, you may still be able to get compensation.
How can I find the other driver’s insurance info?
You can ask the police, contact the DMV, or talk to a lawyer.
Does my own insurance cover me in this case?
It might. If you have UM or PIP coverage, your policy could help with your expenses.
Can I sue the other driver?
Yes. If they’re at fault and refuse to cooperate, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Don’t Wait—Take Action After an Accident
When someone refuses to give you their insurance information after a crash, it’s more than just frustrating—it can hurt your chances of getting the help you need. But you’re not powerless. By calling the police, collecting evidence, and talking to your insurance company or a lawyer, you can still protect yourself. Don’t wait to take action. Call our accident attorney at Friedman Injury Law at (702) 970-4222 today to find out how we can help.
