If You Are In An Accident
What To Do If You Are
In An Accident
Even the best drivers are subject to automobile accidents. Therefore, everyone
should know what steps to take immediately following an accident to protect the
life, limb, property and legal rights of those involved. Here are the steps to take if
you are involved in an accident with another vehicle or pedestrian:

1.   STOP YOUR CAR
    Never leave the scene of an accident in which you or your car are involved. No
    matter how slight the collision, if you fail to stop you may subject yourself to
    criminal prosecution even though the accident was not your fault. Stop your
    car as soon as possible without further endangering any person or property
    and without obstructing traffic. Do whatever is necessary to warn oncoming
    traffic, in order to prevent further accidents.

2.   ASSIST THE INJURED
    If possible, have someone call an ambulance or doctor at once if anyone has
    been injured. Render first aid only if you are qualified.
3.   CALL THE POLICE
    Police officers are trained to handle any situation that may arise after an accident. When the police
    officer arrives, tell him or her briefly the basic facts.   Find out from the investigating officer how to
    obtain the Police Report of the incident.  The report may help you if a liability claim is made.

4.   IDENTIFY THE DRIVER
    Obtain the other driver’s name, address and registration number of the vehicle that he or she is driving.
    Also ask to see his or her driver’s license. If possible, obtain the name of the insurance companies and
    the policy numbers covering the other car(s) in the accident.  Under Vehicle Code Section 16025 the
    other driver must give you their insurance information or face a fine of up to $250 dollars plus penalty
    assessments.

5.   WITNESSES
    Obtain names and addresses of all passengers in all cars involved in the accident. Obtain names and
    addresses of all eyewitnesses. Attempt to obtain from these witnesses a statement as to what
    happened and have them, if they will, write it down at the scene.  Don't rely upon the police officer to
    get all the names, or for the witnesses to hang around until the police arrive.

6.   TAKE NOTES
    Make your own written notes on all significant circumstances concerning the accident.
    Take pictures of your vehicle and the other vehicles involved (if possible).  

7.   COMMENTS
    Do not comment on the accident. Keep your notes and information strictly to yourself. Admit nothing and
    sign nothing even if you think you are wrong. You may learn later that you were not in the wrong or that
    the other driver was equally responsible.

8.   REPORT  ACCIDENT TO DMV
    All automobile accidents in which the overall damage to property or persons is greater than $500 must
    be reported to the DMV within 10 days.

9.   GET TREATED
    If you are injured, don't refuse help at the scene of the accident.  Remember that serious and costly
    injuries are not always immediately evident because the body "numbs" injured areas immediately after a
    trauma.  Get medical attention as soon as possible after an accident and ask your passengers to do
    likewise.

10. CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY
    It is recommended that you speak to a lawyer before giving any statements.  And remember, until the
    victim of an automobile accident retains an attorney, the insurance company generally knows that the
    person they are dealing with is not currently prepared to take his or her case to court and they are
    unlikely to offer fair compensation.
Injury Institute
Health Centers of California
(866) 544-6587
Contact@InjuryInstitute.com
www.InjuryInstitute.com
This web site provides general information only and cannot be relied upon as medical or legal advice.  Applicability of the medical or legal principles
discussed may differ substantially in individual situations. You should consult your doctor or an attorney about your particular situation.
2002 Injury Institute
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