I often have students in my class inquire about whether the police will come if called to a car accident. I’m sure that depends on the severity of the accident (i.e. whether anyone got injured or if the vehicles are impeding traffic). Either way, it’s always good to know what to do after a car accident and get some help.
If you’re involved in an accident, follow this car accident procedure checklist.
- Call 911 and stay at the scene until police show up. They will likely complete an accident report. Even if law enforcement officers don’t respond to the accident, which sometimes happens if there are no injuries, download an accident report form from your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website, fill it out and submit it.
- Exchange insurance information with the other driver(s) involved. Take a picture of their insurance card and license plate, if possible. Get a phone number and name of the person driving the car.
- Take pictures of the damages of both vehicles with your phone.
- Ask witnesses for names and phone numbers.
- Write down an account of what happened and street name. Sometimes we forget details.
- Call your insurance provider to report the claim.
And stay safe. If it is safe to do so, move your car to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights and put out any flares or warning triangles if you have them.
For a Hit and Run, gather as much information as you can to relay to police and call 911:
- License plate number
- Color, make and model of car
- Time and location of accident
- Contact information of potential witnesses
- Direction the driver headed
- Pictures of the scene and damage to your car
- Make posters and ask to hang them in the neighborhood where accident occurred to find potential witnesses.
Again, accidents happen. And they are stressful enough. Perhaps following these guidelines will help you to resolve your accident and get you back on the road quickly.
Until next week…
Daun Thompson
Writer / Comedienne / Artist
A Car Accident – Comedy Defensive Driving