When a motor vehicle collision occurs in Tennessee, all drivers are required to exchange important information, but some drivers refuse to provide the required information despite the law. The refusal to exchange essential information can be considered a hit-and-run. Victims of car accidents in which the drivers will not exchange their information may be able to enlist the help of law enforcement, an auto accident attorney, or their insurance company to track down the other driver and his or her insurance information.
Why Do Drivers Refuse to Give Information?
Drivers may refuse to provide their information for several reasons. They might not have insurance or a driver’s license. They might also be driving stolen cars or vehicles they didn’t have permission to drive. Some drivers may also already have multiple accidents on their records and withhold information to avoid higher insurance premiums. Finally, some drivers may be reticent to provide their information because they are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. No matter what the reason might be, it is best for people to avoid getting into a confrontation with the drivers and instead to take action to protect themselves.
What to Do When Drivers Refuse
When drivers refuse to provide their information, people should call the police. They should also remain calm and gather as much evidence as they can. Accident victims should also take photographs of the accident scene that clearly show the damage to both vehicles. Drivers should write down the license plate number, make and model of the other vehicle. If there are witnesses to the accident, they should write down their names and contact information. People should report the accidents to their own insurance companies. The companies may be able to identify the drivers from the license plate numbers and then obtain their insurance information. Even if the drivers will not initially provide their information, they may be more willing to give it when the police arrive. If the driver is uncooperative, people should simply do what they can to gather evidence and wait for law enforcement to arrive on the scene.