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What To Do When You Are Involved In A Car Crash: At The Scene

September, 2004

One in every eight drivers will be involved in a motor vehicle crash this year, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). This could be you! Are you prepared? Would you know what to do and what questions to ask? These questions are normal, since most people are really upset after a crash. The NSC offers 11 tips to remember that might help you in this situation:

  • Stop your vehicle if it is clear, safe, and legal.
  • Move the vehicle out of the roadway, if it is clear and legal. (Some states have an ordinance against moving the vehicle from the location in which the accident occurred).
  • Turn off the ignition of the cars involved.
  • Make a first aid check of all persons involved in the crash.
  • Gather the names of all persons in the motor vehicles and people who witnessed the crash.
  • Mark the scene of the crash with retroreflective triangles.
  • Call the police and, if necessary, emergency medical services.
  • Make a quick diagram of where the vehicle occupants were seated and indicate the vehicles' direction of travel and lane. Also note the date, time and weather conditions.
  • Ask to see the other driver's license and write down the number.
  • Exchange insurance company information. Do not discuss "fault" or make statements regarding the crash to anyone but the police.
  • Get a copy of the police report of the crash from the local authorities.

Obviously, we would hate for anyone to experience a crash or even witness one, but it could happen. The tips above will help give you some insight in what you should do if you are ever in this situation.

FOR ACCIDENT PREVENTION, GIVE THE ROAD YOUR FULL ATTENTION!

Source: NSC - Fact Sheet Library

Ted Gordon is the Risk Management/Loss Control Manager for the Mississippi State University Extension Service and the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station. His office is located in the North Mississippi Research and Extension Center, in Verona, MS. His telephone number is 662-566-2201.

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