You’ve just been in a car accident on one of Gulfport’s busy roads. You’re shaken and not sure whether you’re injured or just upset. As you exchange information with the other driver, things take a turn: they flat-out refuse to give you their insurance details. Now what?
Many people aren’t prepared for another driver refusing to share their insurance information, and it happens more often than you might think. Whether the driver is uninsured, trying to avoid liability, or simply being difficult, when a driver refuses to share their insurance information after a crash, it’s not just frustrating — it can also be illegal.
Is It Illegal to Refuse to Give Insurance Details?
Yes, it’s generally illegal for a driver to refuse to provide insurance information after an accident. Under Mississippi law, drivers have to provide insurance info after a car accident that results in injury, death, or property damage. Exchanging insurance details is a basic legal requirement meant to help all parties involved handle claims appropriately and fairly.
Unfortunately, some drivers may try to avoid taking responsibility by refusing to share their information, especially if they’re uninsured or at fault. A Gulfport personal injury attorney can help.
Mississippi Law on Exchanging Insurance Information
Under Mississippi law, drivers involved in a car accident are legally required to stop and exchange specific information with the other party. According to Mississippi Code § 63-3-401 and § 63-3-411, any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage must do the following:
- Stop their vehicle at the scene (or as close to it as possible)
- Provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the other party
- Render reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured, including calling for medical help if necessary
When someone fails to comply with this law, it can result in serious consequences. In fact, failure to provide insurance details after an accident may be treated as a hit-and-run offense, especially if the driver leaves the scene without exchanging information.
These rules apply even in minor fender-benders. The law protects all parties involved. It makes sure that injuries are treated, property damage is documented, and insurance coverage is applied.
Potential Penalties for Drivers Who Refuse to Share Insurance in Mississippi
Mississippi drivers who refuse to share their insurance information after an accident can face legal and financial penalties, including the following:
- Fines – Refusing to provide insurance details can result in significant monetary fines, especially if the refusal is tied to leaving the scene or failing to comply with post-accident procedures.
- Driver’s License Suspension – The Mississippi Department of Public Safety may suspend a driver’s license for failing to provide proof of insurance or for being involved in an accident and not cooperating with authorities or other drivers.
- Misdemeanor Charges – In some cases, refusal to exchange insurance information (especially if combined with other violations, like leaving the scene of an accident) can lead to misdemeanor charges.
- Increased Liability – A driver who refuses to share their insurance information may be considered evasive or negligent, which can hurt their credibility in personal injury or property damage lawsuits. Courts may interpret their behavior as an attempt to avoid responsibility.
Uninsured or uncooperative drivers will face a tough road if they have to defend themselves against insurance and legal claims. Their failure to provide insurance details can be used against them in negotiations and court.
Steps to Take If a Driver Refuses to Share Insurance Information in Gulfport
Even if the other driver refuses to cooperate, you still have options. Here’s what to do if another driver refuses to share their information:
- Call 911 – Notify the authorities immediately. Police officers can document the scene, look out for everyone’s safety, and sometimes compel the other driver to provide their insurance details. An official police report can be a crucial piece of evidence for your case.
- Gather Evidence – Use your phone to take photos of both vehicles, visible damage, license plates, the scene, and any relevant traffic signs or road conditions. Note the make, model, and color of the other driver’s vehicle. Jot down a description of the driver. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw.
- Avoid Confrontation – It can be upsetting when someone refuses to cooperate, but try not to engage in an argument. Remaining calm allows you to stay focused on protecting your rights and gathering information that may help later.
- Get the Police Report – A police report is a valuable tool in your case. It may confirm that the other driver refused to provide insurance information and can include any citations issued by the responding officer. You or your attorney can request a copy to support your insurance claim and any potential legal action.
- Contact Your Insurance Company – Let your insurer know what happened and share all documentation you’ve collected. If the other driver is unidentified or uninsured, your own uninsured motorist coverage may help with medical expenses or vehicle repairs. Do not admit fault or say anything that could sound like you’re admitting fault. Your insurance company has a vested interest in paying as little as possible, even though you’re the one paying the premiums.
- Speak with a Car Accident Attorney – If you’ve been injured, you need a Gulfport car accident lawyer who understands Mississippi personal injury law. A local attorney can help you identify the at-fault driver, file a claim, and pursue compensation – even if the other driver was uninsured or refused to cooperate.
Need Legal Help? Call a Gulfport Personal Injury Lawyer Today!
If you’re dealing with a driver refusing to give insurance details, you don’t have to handle the situation alone. Skilled legal guidance can make all the difference. Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC, has been fighting for Gulfport residents since 2014. With over a decade of experience, we’ve helped clients recover compensation after serious car accidents. Our track record includes multiple six-figure settlements for injured drivers and passengers. As one client wrote:
“Very professional and worth the money. Farrar lifted a huge weight off my shoulders in a situation that would have been way worse without him. Highly recommend” – Jacob S.
Haug, Farrar, Franco & Ruiz, PLLC, provides personalized support and aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Whether the at-fault driver is uninsured, uncooperative, or trying to avoid responsibility, our team is ready to step in and help. Call (228) 872-8752 for a consultation.