May 21, 2022 | Car Accidents
Car accidents are common occurrences on Oklahoma roadways. Oklahoma and other states require drivers to carry a minimum amount of vehicle insurance. When an accident occurs, insurance companies get involved to determine how much, if any, of the damages they must cover.
If you’re ever hit by an at-fault driver, one of the first things you’ll do is exchange insurance information. Under normal circumstances between law-abiding drivers, obtaining an at-fault driver’s insurance is a seamless process. Sometimes, though, it may not be so easy.
Ask the Driver
Drivers on Oklahoma roads must have proof of insurance in their vehicles at all times. When a police officer asks a motorist for proof of insurance, they must produce this proof or be subject to a misdemeanor charge.
However, if you ask another motorist for their insurance information, they are not obliged to produce it for you. In some cases, they may not even be in a position to do so. For example, if an at-fault driver is seriously injured or otherwise incapable of producing their information, you may have to wait for police assistance or seek out other sources to obtain it.
Another instance where you may not be able to get another driver’s insurance information is if that driver fled the scene of the accident. Fleeing the scene is common with at-fault drivers, who might panic at the thought of facing the consequences of an accident.
Contact the Police
Oklahoma law mandates that motorists report all accidents that cause injury or death. When the authorities arrive, they will require each motorist involved in the accident to produce a copy of their insurance.
If the at-fault driver is unable to produce their documents due to injury or death, the officer can pull this information from a statewide database that houses important records officers need to successfully discharge their duties.
If you’re involved in a minor accident that does not require you to contact the police, you may still call for the police to come out and file a report. This will also compel the driver to produce their insurance information if they do indeed have coverage.
Other Options for Obtaining Insurance Information
The Oklahoma Department of Motor Vehicles has insurance information on all drivers. If you have a valid reason for the request (an accident should qualify), you may be able to obtain a copy of the at-fault driver’s insurance information. You’ll need to have information on the other driver, such as their license plate number.
In some cases, you might have incomplete information about the other driver’s insurance. If you at least know the name of their insurance company and have enough identifying information about the driver’s car (e.g., license plate number), you can contact the provider and request policy information.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney for Help Requesting Auto Insurance Information
If all else has failed, you should consider reaching out to a car accident attorney. An accident lawyer will be well-equipped to find out whether someone has car insurance and get that information.
Additionally, a car accident attorney can review your case and help determine what compensation you deserve if you’ve been injured or have suffered property damage. They will also deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, who often try to persuade car accident victims to accept lowball offers when they deserve more.
If you do decide to speak with a personal injury attorney, you should bring to your meeting any details you have regarding the other driver and the crash, including the license plate number, photos of the accident, police report (if applicable), and a medical report of your injuries.
Time matters when it comes to car accident cases. Oklahoma law gives most injury victims two years from the date of the accident to file their lawsuit. If you feel you have a valid case or need help dealing with insurance companies, don’t hesitate to call an attorney to review your case.
Contact the Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyers at McGuire Law Firm Today for Free Consultation
For more information, please contact the Oklahoma City Car Accident law firm of McGuire Law Firm at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve throughout Oklahoma and its surrounding areas:
McGuire Law Firm – Edmond
200 E 10th Street Plaza
Edmond, OK 73034
United States
(405) 513-5658