Insurance Agent Explains What to Do After a Crash With an Uninsured Driver: "Record Everything"

Car crashes can be frightening and upsetting. Even when no one is seriously hurt, the aftermath of a wreck can still be overwhelming, from dealing with insurance companies to arranging vehicle repairs. Even a minor collision can take up a lot of time and energy.

Things become even more stressful when the other driver has no insurance.

A TikTok creator, @claims.corrie, posted a video advising people on what to do if they ever find themselves dealing with an uninsured driver. She said there are several steps people can take to protect themselves and avoid extra trouble later.

The video has drawn significant attention, earning more than 15,900 likes and prompting many viewers to share their own experiences and advice in the comments.

Advice for Handling an Uninsured Driver

@claims.corrie Someone promising to pay out of pocket after a crash isn’t the same as having a plan!Document everything, contact the police when appropriate, and check your own policy for uninsured motorist coverage. It could help depending on your coverage and state. #personalinjury #InsuranceTips #CarAccidentHelp #CarAccidentTips #carinsurance ♬ original sound – Corrie 💫

The creator said that if another driver admits they do not have insurance, the worst thing to do is simply take their phone number and agree to settle things privately. “They might be sorry, and they might promise to pay you, but a lot of the time, that number just stops working,” she warned.

Instead, she recommends telling the driver that you understand, but that police still need to be called so a report can be filed. She also advised taking photos of the driver’s license, the license plate, and the vehicle.

Insurance Coverage May Still Help

Although a crash involving an uninsured driver adds another layer of stress, the TikToker said it does not necessarily leave the insured driver without options.

“Here’s what a lot of people don’t know,” she explained. “Your own insurance might still help if you have something called ‘uninsured motorist coverage.'”

She added that people can usually confirm whether they have that coverage by calling their insurance agent or reviewing their policy.

Commenters Shared Additional Tips

Viewers in the comments offered their own suggestions for handling the situation. One person wrote, “Don’t tell them you’re gonna call the police, just call the police immediately.”

Another commenter said drivers should also make sure to photograph the VIN, which can usually be found on the windshield or in the driver’s door jamb.

A third person pointed out the value of having a camera in the car, writing, “…and a dash cam.”

According to Forbes, uninsured motorist coverage can cost as little as $136 per year. While that may feel like one more expense, it can offer reassurance that an uninsured driver will not leave you facing a large bill after an accident.