Part Three in our "Common Mistakes" series.

Mistake #3 – Failing To Obtain Information about the At-Fault Driver and Witnesses

It is very important to get the name of the other driver who caused the accident.  You need his or her:

• Full Name
• Driver’s License Number and State of Issuance
• Address
• Phone Number

You will also want to obtain:

• Year, Make and Model of the At-Fault Vehicle
• License Plate Number
• State that Issued the License Plate
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

Most of this information will be on the police report if the police responded to the scene and made an accurate and complete report.  Sometimes, though, the police simply ask the persons involved to exchange information or will assist in the exchange with a pre-printed form.  Be sure the information listed above is on the exchange of information, whatever the form.

You should also get the following information for each witness:

• Full Name
• Address
• Phone Number

Witnesses can make or break a case, and it will be important to be able to contact any witnesses and take a statement.  This is especially true if the other person lies about what happened in the accident and tries to blame you.


To read about other big mistakes people make after an accident, check these out:
Click to read about mistake #1: failing to go to the emergency room or a doctor ASAP.
Click to read about mistake #2: giving a statement to the other party's insurance company.


If you have been involved in an auto accident, call or email us for a FREE, no-obligation consultation about your rights. We can help you even if you don't have all of the information listed in this article and even if you've already given statements to the insurance companies. We routinely help clients in these situations and can help you find a doctor who will help you recover and regain your health. We would be happy to talk to you about your case.