Quick Guide if You Have a Car Accident

IMMEDIATE ACTIONS: (As recommended by the National Safety Council)

• Stop the vehicle and move it out of the traveled roadway if it is clear, safe and legal. (In some states, it is against the law to move the vehicle from the place where the auto accident occurred. If in doubt, leave it where it is.)
• Turn off the ignitions of all cars involved.
• Check on all people involved in the accident to see if there are injuries and the seriousness of the injuries.
• Call the police, and if necessary, emergency medical services.
• Mark the scene of the auto accident with flares or reflective triangles.
• Gather the names of all people in the vehicles and the people who witnessed the auto accident.
• Make a quick diagram of where the vehicle occupants were seated and indicate the vehicle’s directions of travel and lanes. Also make note of the date, time and weather conditions.
• Ask the other driver for driver’s license information, and write down the number.
• Exchange insurance company information.
• Do not discuss “fault” or make statements about the auto accident to anyone but the police.
• Get a copy of the police report for the auto accident from the local precinct.

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