A recent court case has emphasised the importance of obtaining vehicle details when you are involved in a motor accident so you can establish a valid claim.
A pedestrian was crossing a busy street when he was hit by a car. After the driver stopped, got out of the car and spoke with him, the pedestrian left without taking down the details of the car or driver. He later made a police report and returned to the scene to find witnesses.
The court found that a reasonably informed member of the community could be expected to appreciate that it is important to obtain the registration number of the vehicle and, if possible, the details of the driver in order to pursue any claim for compensation.
The court found the pedestrian was not so injured that he was prevented from taking down the details of the other vehicle and overturned an earlier court decision to award him over $400,000 in compensation.