Reporting Uninsured Drivers: Your Steps To Take

If you've been in a collision with another driver and suspect they don't have auto insurance, there are several steps you can take to verify their insurance status and protect yourself. Firstly, ask the other driver for their insurance information, including their insurance company and policy number. If they refuse to provide this information or leave the scene, try to gather other details such as their license plate number, the make and model of their car, and their driver's license number. You can then use the license plate number to file a request with the police or the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to check the driver's insurance status. Filing a police report is generally recommended, as it can help speed up any insurance claims and provide valuable evidence of the accident. Additionally, contact your insurance company and inform them of the accident details, as they can assist you in tracking down the other driver's insurance information. If the other driver is uninsured, you may need to rely on your own insurance coverage for repairs and medical bills, and your insurance company can help you navigate this process.

File a police report

If you've been in an accident with an uninsured driver, it's important to file a police report. Driving without insurance is illegal in all states except New Hampshire, so be sure to call the police. Even if the accident is your fault, you should still call the police and make a report.

If the police are unable to come to the scene, go to the local police station and fill out an accident report. Get a copy of the report, or ask your car accident lawyer to get a copy for you.

You can also report an uninsured driver to the police if you know someone who is driving without insurance. This can be done anonymously in most cases. However, the police may have more pressing issues to deal with and may not be able to do much unless the driver has been proven to be a safety threat to others.

When filing a police report, be sure to include the following information:

• Date and time of the accident
• Location of the accident
• Names and contact information of involved individuals, as well as driver's license numbers
• Insurance information of involved individuals, including policy numbers
• Details of the vehicles involved, including license plate numbers and state of registration
• Environmental factors, such as weather, time of day, and lighting
• Names and contact information of any witnesses

It's important to report an accident to your insurance company as soon as possible following the incident. If you have collision coverage, it should cover damages to your car, minus your deductible. Uninsured and underinsured coverage can reimburse you for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

In addition to filing a police report, you can also report an uninsured driver to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV keeps records of all drivers' car insurance coverage and can check on the status of the driver's insurance. If the driver is found to be uninsured, the DMV can suspend or revoke their driving privileges.

Contact your insurance company

If you've been in an accident with an uninsured driver, it's important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and advise you on the steps to take to handle the situation effectively.

Gather Information:

Make sure to collect the necessary details at the scene of the accident. This includes the other driver's license plate number, their name as it appears on their license, the make and model of their vehicle, their insurance company and policy number (if available), and their driver's license number. Additionally, take photos of the accident scene, document the specifics of the incident (date, time, location, environmental factors, etc.), and get the contact information of any witnesses.

Contact Your Insurance Company:

Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the accident. Provide them with all the information you have gathered, including the other driver's details and any evidence you have collected. Your insurance company will walk you through the process of filing a claim and explain the coverage options available to you.

Understand Your Insurance Coverage:

Review your insurance policy to understand the extent of your coverage. If you have collision coverage, it should cover the damages to your vehicle, minus your deductible. Additionally, consider whether you have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which can provide reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. This type of coverage is required by law in some states and optional in others.

Follow Up with Your Insurance Company:

Stay in regular contact with your insurance company throughout the claims process. They will communicate with the other driver's insurance company (if they are insured) or handle the claim directly if the other driver is uninsured. Your insurance company will work to resolve the claim and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to based on your policy.

Remember, it is essential to remain calm and collect as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. This information will be crucial when filing a claim with your insurance company and ensuring you are properly compensated for any damages or injuries.

Report to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Reporting an Uninsured Driver to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

Reporting an uninsured driver to the DMV is a more effective option than reporting to the police, as the DMV keeps records of all drivers' car insurance coverage on a live database that is updated throughout the day. If you report an uninsured driver, the DMV will check the status of the driver's insurance coverage. If the driver is found to be uninsured and in violation of state law, the DMV can suspend or revoke their driving privileges.

If you have been in an accident with an uninsured driver, you can report them to the DMV by following these steps:

• Gather information: Note down the license plate number, make and model of the vehicle, and any other relevant details such as the time and location of the incident.
• Contact the DMV: Report the uninsured driver to your local DMV, providing them with all the information you have gathered. They will guide you on the next steps to take, which may include filling out a request form detailing the accident.
• Provide evidence: In some states, you may need to provide evidence of the collision, such as a police report or other documentation.
• Follow up: Stay in communication with the DMV and provide any additional information or documentation they may require to process your report.

In addition to reporting an uninsured driver to the DMV, you should also inform your insurance company about the incident. This is important even if you were not directly involved in a collision, as it may impact your insurance claim or any legal action taken against the uninsured driver.

It's worth noting that the procedures and regulations for reporting uninsured drivers may vary depending on your jurisdiction. Therefore, it is recommended to check with your local DMV for specific guidelines and requirements.

Gather information: license plate number, make and model of the vehicle

If you've been in an accident with an uninsured driver, it's important to gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes the license plate number, make, and model of the vehicle. Here are some detailed steps to help you with this process:

• Write down the license plate number: The license plate number is crucial for tracking down the driver and verifying their insurance status. Make sure to record the full number accurately, including any letters and numbers. Take a picture of the license plate if possible, as this can help you remember the details and serve as evidence.
• Note the make and model of the vehicle: Identify the make (the manufacturer) and model (the specific type) of the vehicle. For example, "Toyota Camry" or "Ford F-150". This information can help identify the vehicle and its owner.
• Record other vehicle details: In addition to the license plate number and make/model, take note of the vehicle's colour, any distinctive features or damage, and the approximate year of the model. These additional details can aid in identifying the vehicle and its owner.
• Gather other relevant information: If possible, also record the time and location of the incident, as well as your own observations about what happened. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information. These details will be valuable when filing a report or making an insurance claim.
• Use your phone: Modern smartphones have built-in cameras and note-taking apps, making them useful tools for gathering information. Take photos of the vehicle, including close-ups of the license plate and any damage. Use your phone's notes app or voice recorder to jot down the vehicle's details and your own account of the incident.
• Be discreet and maintain a safe distance: While gathering information, keep a safe distance from the vehicle and its driver. Do not put yourself in harm's way or escalate the situation. Prioritize your safety and well-being.
• Contact the authorities if necessary: If the situation warrants immediate attention, don't hesitate to call the local police or emergency services. They can assist in ensuring everyone's safety and documenting the incident.

Remember, the more information you can gather about the vehicle and the incident, the better. This information will be valuable when reporting the uninsured driver to the police, the DMV, or your insurance company. It can also help support any insurance claims or legal proceedings that may arise as a result of the accident.

Seek legal help

If you've been in a car accident with an uninsured driver, you may need to seek legal help to ensure you receive fair compensation. Here are the steps you can take:

Contact Your Insurance Company

First, inform your insurance company about the incident. They will guide you on the next steps and let you know what your insurance covers in this situation. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance company will help pay for the expenses incurred due to the accident, provided you have this type of coverage. This coverage is optional and may not be available in all states, so check with your insurance provider.

File a Police Report

Report the accident to the police and file a police report. The police report will contain crucial details that can be used as evidence against the at-fault driver. An uninsured driver may be reluctant to involve the police, but it is essential to do so to protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation. Take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, your injuries, and the other driver's license plate if possible.

Exchange Information

Make sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and any witnesses. Witness statements can significantly strengthen your case. Get the names and contact information of everyone involved, including drivers, passengers, and witnesses.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it is important to see a doctor. Some injuries may not manifest immediately and can take weeks or even months to appear. Seeking medical attention promptly will help ensure that your injuries are properly treated and documented, which can be crucial when filing a claim or pursuing legal action.

Consult an Attorney

If your damages are substantial and your insurance coverage is insufficient, consider consulting a car accident attorney. An experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, negotiate with insurance companies, and advise you on the best course of action. They can help you navigate the complexities of dealing with an uninsured driver and protect your rights.

File a Lawsuit

If necessary, you may choose to file a lawsuit against the uninsured driver to recover damages. However, keep in mind that even if you win a judgment, collecting the awarded amount may be challenging. Uninsured drivers often lack sufficient assets to pay for damages, so consider this possibility before investing time and money in a lawsuit.

Frequently asked questions