While we all want to believe people are good, we also need to be realistic. Identity theft has become an increasingly growing problem in our country, and it happens in more situations than you realize.
You may think that you can trust the other person at the scene of the accident to take the information that is needed and only that information to pursue an auto claim, but can you guarantee that he or she will not take more information than that?
How do you keep your identity safe at the scene of an accident?
We have asked attorney, Alaina Sullivan, about this type of situation. Here is what she had to say:
Does It Really Happen?
Yes, it does really happen. Many criminals will purposely cause a car accident to make false personal injury claims, and they also take information provided voluntarily by the other drivers.
Many drivers think that it is okay to hand over their driver’s licenses and insurance cards, assuming that the other person will only take the information needed, but that is not the case.
For this reason, you should be aware of what information to give and what information to withhold.
Protect Your Personal Information
Your driver’s license contains a lot of information that is personal to only you and should not be shared with others. Some licenses put your social security number on the card, which, of course, is extremely private.
You also do not need to share your driver’s license number itself. Your address should also be protected since it not only gives information as to where you live but others as well.
You do not need to provide your policy number from your insurance card either. You only need to give your insurance company and contact information for your agent and contact information for your insurance’s claims department.
The picture on your license could even be considered personal. Within seconds, the other individual could snap a picture of your license and use your own identity to create a false ID for later use.
What Do They Need?
Simply put, you need to provide your contact information and the contact information for your insurance. Provide your name and phone number, and give your insurance company’s name and contact information.
They can take your license plate number, as well, as that information will also be able to provide contact information for you on top of what you’ve already given. It is a lot easier than the alternative.
If All Else Fails
If you are not sure what to provide to the other person, it never hurts to contact local police. In fact, it is almost always recommended you call the police when an accident occurs. That police report could be vital to any claims or lawsuit you bring, but it also will stop a con artist in his or her tracks.
The police officer will be the person you provide your information to, and you can be guaranteed that any protected information will remain protected.
Contact an Attorney Today
If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important you speak with an attorney before making any claims. A licensed personal injury attorney will be able to review your case and determine if you have a claim against the other party’s insurance company.
To receive the compensation for your medical bills, property damages, and pain and suffering, you should speak with a personal injury attorney in your area today.
