Accident Do's and Don'ts

If you are involved in an accident:

Do's

• Check to ensure that you are not injured. If you are uninjured, check others in your car to make sure they are uninjured. Then, check with any other involved parties.
• If anyone is injured, immediately call 911. Render first aid if possible.
• Exchange information with other involved parties. This would include name, address, phone number, vehicle license plate number, driver's license number and the name of the insurance company and contact. To save time, you can fill out and print the handy Reference Cards in advance. Keep these cards in your glove box with your registration and proof of insurance.
• Secure names and contact information from any witnesses.
• If you have a camera handy, photograph the scene of the accident and the condition of all vehicles or property involved.
• Make a record of the accident for yourself including time, location, weather conditions, traffic conditions and a brief description of the accident. The printable Accident Information Form will assist you in obtaining important information regarding your accident, including the other driver's information, vehicle license number and a detailed description of all vehicles involved.
• Contact your insurance company, preferably from the accident scene. They may be able to provide other valuable information and may ask for additional information from you such as a copy of the police report.

Don'ts

• Don't leave the scene of an accident without first securing information from other parties involved.
• Don't discuss any personal information regarding your physical condition or mental frame of mind as this can be used against you in post-accident legal action.

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