After a car accident in Illinois, you are legally required to exchange key information with the other driver—including your name, contact details, license number, and insurance information. Failing to do so can lead to legal trouble and make it harder to file a claim. Always take time to document the scene and call the police if necessary.
For help filing a claim or navigating your insurance coverage, call Insure on the Spot at 773-202-5060.
Why Is Exchanging Information So Important?
Exchanging information after an accident allows both parties to:
- File insurance claims
- Determine fault
- Seek compensation for damages or injuries
Skipping this step can result in delays, disputes, or legal issues. It’s also required by law in Illinois if there’s injury, death, or property damage over $1,500—or $500 if any driver is uninsured.
What Information Do You Need to Exchange?
After ensuring everyone is safe and calling for medical help if needed, exchange the following:
- Full names and contact info
- Driver’s license numbers (ask to see their license and write down the number)
- Vehicle details (make, model, color, and license plate number)
- Insurance provider and policy number
- Names and contact info of passengers (if possible)
Also, document the scene by taking photos of:
- Vehicle damage
- License plates
- Road signs or signals
- Skid marks or debris
- Weather or traffic conditions
This documentation helps support your claim later.
Do You Have to Exchange Information in Every Accident?
Yes. In Illinois, drivers are legally obligated to share their details after any accident that involves:
- Injury or death
- Property damage exceeding $1,500
- Any uninsured driver (threshold drops to $500)
Refusing to exchange information—or leaving the scene—can be considered a hit-and-run, which carries criminal penalties.
Why Is It Important to Exchange Insurance Info?
Sharing insurance information:
- Lets insurers verify coverage
- Starts the claims process
- Provides proof of liability or innocence
- Helps you access compensation if the other driver is at fault
Without it, filing your claim could be delayed or denied. Make sure to copy the insurer’s name, policy number, and contact number from the other driver’s insurance card.
Should You Call the Police or Handle It Privately?
In most cases, call the police—even if the damage appears minor. Here’s why:
- You get an official accident report that helps settle insurance disputes.
- Illinois law requires a report if injuries or damages exceed legal thresholds.
- Medical issues and damage aren’t always obvious at the scene.
- Uncooperative drivers can be held accountable with police assistance.
If the other driver refuses to exchange info or is uninsured, having law enforcement involved protects your legal and financial interests.
What Should You Say (And Avoid Saying) at the Scene?
Do:
- Stay calm and polite
- Stick to facts (“We were turning when our cars collided.”)
- Ask for their info directly: “Can we exchange insurance and contact details, please?”
- Focus on what’s necessary—not who’s to blame
Don’t:
- Admit fault (“I’m sorry” can be used against you)
- Speculate (“I think I didn’t see you.”)
- Argue or accuse
- Sign anything or accept cash
Let the police and insurance adjusters determine who is responsible. Your job is to gather the right info.
What If the Other Driver Refuses to Share Information?
If the other driver won’t cooperate:
- Call the police immediately
- Write down their license plate and vehicle description
- Avoid confrontation—stay in your car if needed
- Ask for witness statements
- Let the officers handle it—they can collect and file the driver’s information
If the driver flees, try to capture details (plate, make, color) and report a hit-and-run to 911 right away.
What If the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver:
- Call the police so the incident is documented
- Collect their name, contact info, and vehicle details
- Do not accept cash settlements on the spot
- File a claim with your insurer using uninsured motorist coverage (UM), which is required in Illinois
UM coverage helps pay for your medical costs and vehicle damage when the other driver can’t.
What If It’s a Hit-and-Run?
Take these steps if the other driver flees:
- Stay put and call 911
- Note any identifying details (plate number, vehicle type, color)
- Talk to witnesses and get their contact info
- Photograph the scene and any damage to your vehicle
- Cooperate with police and file an insurance claim under your UM coverage
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What information do I need to exchange after a crash in Illinois?
A: Share your name, phone number, driver’s license number, vehicle info, and insurance policy number. This is legally required.
Q: What if the other driver refuses to give me their info?
A: Call the police right away. They can obtain the information and file an official report.
Q: What happens if I don’t exchange insurance info?
A: You could face legal penalties and trouble with your insurer. It may be treated as a hit-and-run if you leave without sharing.
Get Help Filing a Claim or Understanding Your Coverage
Whether you’re dealing with a cooperative driver, an uninsured motorist, or a hit-and-run, Insure on the Spot is here to help. Call 773-202-5060 to speak with our Chicago-based team or get a free quote online. We’ll guide you through your claim and make sure you have the right protection moving forward.