Do I still call troopers if the other driver in a crash does not have insurance and leaves?

Trooper Steve discusses Florida traffic laws

ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve Montiero answers viewer questions and shares tips about the rules of the road, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.

A News 6 viewer on Tuesday asked, “Do I still call troopers if I’m in a crash and the other driver does not have insurance and decides to leave?”

“If the other driver decides to leave a crash, I certainly hope someone would notify law enforcement immediately,” Trooper Steve said. “Leaving the scene of a crash is a criminal act and outright irresponsible.”

That being said, not every crash requires a law enforcement response, if both drivers determine it’s not necessary.

“If both drivers agree to exchange the information with each other, the law allows for it,” Trooper Steve added. “But the requirement to exchange information is there; there is no choice in this matter.”

He suggests that drivers involved in a crash document the incident by taking photogs as quickly as possible.

“Taking identifiable photos of the car, the license plate and even of the other driver could assist you if there were issues later in the crash investigation,” Trooper Steve said.

If you have a question for Trooper Steve, submit it here.

For more Ask Trooper Steve content, click or tap here.

[RELATED: Who cleans up debris after crashes? Trooper Steve explains the process]


About the Authors

Steven Montiero, better known as “Trooper Steve," joined the News 6 morning team as its Traffic Safety Expert in October 2017. A Central Florida native and decorated combat veteran, Montiero comes to the station following an eight-year assignment with the Florida Highway Patrol.

Daniel started with WKMG-TV in 2000 and became the digital content manager in 2009. When he's not working on ClickOrlando.com, Daniel likes to head to the beach or find a sporting event nearby.

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