The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has cautioned drivers who are involved in a car accident about the risk of identity theft. The information you provide after a car crash in Colorado, Florida, or any other state after a collision can be enough to result in identity theft, and this situation has happened to motorists across the country.
You have enough to worry about if you’re injured in a car accident. You shouldn’t have to worry about identity theft, too. If you’re in a car collision in South Florida or in Colorado, you can always contact Flaxman Law Group for a free consultation with a car accident attorney. Our family-based team works to protect your future.
Understanding Identity Theft After a Car Collision
One of the reasons why identity theft is so common after car accidents is because injured people are vulnerable. In the confusion and chaos of a crash, a fraudster can pressure you into revealing enough information to steal your identity. Here are some ways you can protect yourself:
- Only give required information. You do need to share your insurance information with the other driver (and they should share theirs). You will also want to take photos of the accident scene and get the contact information of any witnesses. However, you do not need to share a lot of personal information. Do not let the other driver convince you to share your Social Security Number or take a photo of your ID. You also don’t need to share your personal phone number or address, since your insurance company and the other driver’s insurance company will be dealing with each other.
- If you suspect the accident was caused on purpose, call for help. Call police and your insurance company. Unfortunately, insurance fraud is a serious concern and some fraudsters cause car crashes to make fraudulent claims.
- Report the accident promptly. Report the accident to your insurance company and file a police report. That way, if someone does try to steal your identity you have a paper trail leading back to the originating incident. Reporting your crash promptly also helps you pursue any compensation you may be eligible for.
- Keep an eye on your credit score after your crash. It pay to be extra vigilant after a car accident. Check your bank account and credit card statements for unusual activity. Get a free copy of your credit score from the credit bureaus or sign up for a reputable credit monitoring service so you spot any attempts to open accounts in your name. If your credit score drops or you notice unusual activity on your credit report, contact the credit bureaus and police immediately.
- Contact a car accident injury attorney. Working with a car accident attorney in South Florida, Colorado, or your local area means there is someone on your side who can advise you and can pursue the fairest compensation for you. With an attorney by your side, you also have someone who may have recommendations if you’re affected by identity theft. For example, your lawyer may be able to explain whether you have a civil claim stemming from the identity theft.
Have you suffered losses or injuries in a car collision in South Florida or Colorado? Contact Flaxman Law Group at 866-352-9626 for a free consultation with a car crash injury claims attorney. Our family-based, boutique law firm is here to give you answers in clear language and to help you decide what you may want to do next to protect your financial future.