How to Track Vehicle Insurance Using a License Plate: A Personal Experience with a Highway Incident
Dealing with unexpected vehicle damage can be stressful, especially when it involves identifying the responsible party. Recently, I encountered a situation on California’s highways where a loose traffic cone from a truck in front of me struck my vehicle’s front bumper, causing noticeable damage.
Fortunately, I was able to record the incident with my dashcam, which captured the license plate number of the truck responsible. I promptly shared this information with my insurance provider. However, they were unable to retrieve the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) directly from the license plate, prompting me to use online resources to supply the VIN for further processing.
This experience raises an important question: Can an insurance company or adjuster determine the other driver’s insurance details solely based on the license plate number? I am hopeful that they can, as my goal is to file a claim through their insurance rather than covering the repairs out of pocket.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, consider the following steps:
- Ensure you have clear evidence, such as dashcam footage or photos of the incident and license plate.
- Share all gathered information promptly with your insurer.
- Use reputable online tools or services to identify vehicle details when necessary.
- Inquire with your insurance provider about their process for identifying and contacting the responsible party’s insurer.
- Keep records of all communications and evidence related to the incident.
Has anyone else experienced a similar scenario? What procedures or resources did you find most effective in establishing liability and pursuing a claim? Sharing your insights can help others navigate these kinds of roadside incidents more confidently.
