No one expects to be in a car accident, but many accidents happen every day. Statistics show that nearly all of us will be in a car accident at some time. Knowing what to do when an accident happens is important. It can make all the difference if you, your family or friends are hurt and need help.
1
Get Help
Call 911 if anyone is hurt. Medical care within the first hour after an injury is critical.
2
Notify the Police
In most states this is required by law before you can leave the scene if anyone is injured, or there is any significant property damage. It’s a mistake to just exchange names and phone numbers with the other driver and leave the scene. Call the police. Be sure to get the name of the officer at the scene and write it down.
3
Get Crucial Information
Get contact information from the other driver or drivers. Jot down their name, address and phone number. Make a note of the color, make and model of the other vehicles, and the license plates if you can. The police officer can help you get all this information, and will often have a form for you to exchange with the other driver(s) involved. Do not be afraid to ask such information, or for the form.
4
Identify Witnesses
Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. If you can, do this quickly. Often, people who saw the collision will stop for a short time, but leave before the police arrive. Other motorists, passengers or pedestrians can be critical witnesses. Get their name and phone number.
5
Do Not Discuss Fault
Do not blame the other driver even if they were clearly at fault. It may just start an argument. But, if the other driver admits it was their fault, make a mental note of it. When you get home, jot down precisely what you remember them saying. Even if you feel you may have been partially at fault, do not say anything that admits your feeling. "Fault" is often a complex determination based on the facts and complicated laws. Leave that issue for the police to decide – or an attorney, if necessary.
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