Fact vs. Fiction on Insurance Requirements After an Accident- Do You Have to Provide Insurance?

After an accident, several things must take place. One of which includes exchanging insurance information with the other driver involved. However, swift willingness to produce insurance may not always be put forward. Reasoning for wanting to withhold insurance can vary from not having insurance, the driver is intoxicated, or their license is suspended, or it was their fault and they don’t want to be caught. Regardless of anyone’s reasoning for failing to provide insurance, there is a great deal of ambiguity surrounding insurance requirements after an accident. Nevertheless, driver’s insurance is one of the most vital components to be taken into account after an accident, so it is highly beneficial to have the facts straight. With that being said, we are going to debunk fiction from the truth and shed light on the actuality surrounding insurance regulations after an accident.

Fact vs. Fiction

• You are required to produce proof of insurance after an accident. FACT. In Kentucky, you must provide insurance or you could be issued a citation. Although you can appear in court in response to the citation and produce proof of insurance, thus having the charge dismissed, you would still have to pay court costs. However, if you still cannot produce insurance at court, you would also be fined.
• Failure to provide insurance after an accident is a charge that will land you in prison. FICTION. If you do not provide insurance after the accident, you will not be arrested, therefore there is no jail time. It is a violation of the law, but it does not rise to the level of prison. However, you will be cited and have to show up to court. If you skip the court appearance then a warrant would be issued for your arrest.
• After an accident, share only your name and your insurance information, which will contain a number of contact for your insurance provider. FACT. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, those are the only two items necessary to provide after an accident. Any other information (such as your home address, driver’s license number, etc.) is considered personal information and does not need to be shared.
• It is wise to store your insurance information in a convenient spot in your car like your glovebox or console. FACT. Having proof of insurance ready and available in your car is highly recommended.
• Contacting a lawyer after an accident is a bright idea. FACT. Working through the intricacies of insurance requirements after a car accident can be challenging. Therefore we recommend the assistance of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to facilitate the process. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, please do not hesitate to call Dixie Law Group at 502-290-2397.