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What information should I gather at the accident scene?
Since many records now are confidential under the law, you may not be able to obtain the information that you want from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). So be sure to get as much correct and complete information as you can at the scene of the accident. You and the other driver should show each other your drivers' licenses and vehicle registrations. Record:
The other driver's name, address, date of birth, telephone number, driver's license number and expirations date, and insurance company.
The other car's make, year, model, license plate number and expiration date, and vehicle identification number. The names, addresses, telephone numbers and insurance companies of the other car's legal and registered owners - if the driver does not own the car.
The names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any passengers in the other car.
The names, addresses and telephone numbers of witnesses to the accident. Ask them to stay to talk to the CHP or police. If they insist on leaving, ask them to tell you what they saw and write everything down.
Try to identify people at the accident scene, even if they will not give their names. For example, if a man who saw the accident drives off, take down his license plate number. Law enforcement officials can trace the owner's name and address.
The name and badge number of the law officer who comes to the accident scene. Ask the officer where and when you can get a copy of the accident report. Make a simple diagram of the accident. Draw the positions of both cars before, during and after the accident. If there are skid marks on the road, pace them off. Draw them on the diagram, noting the distance they cover. Mark the positions of any crosswalks, stop signs, traffic lights or street lights. If you have a camera with you, take pictures of the scene.
Make notes, too, on weather and road conditions. If the accident happened after dark, say
whether street lights were on. Estimate your speed and the other driver's. Be sure to note the exact time and place the accident happened.*
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CAUTION! Please remember that no information found at this site can replace a face to face meeting or telephone consultation with a "real live" attorney about your particular case, problem or question. The information you find here or in the answers should just be a starting point in finding your answers. |
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