A car crash can rattle the best of us, but staying calm and knowing what to do at the scene can keep a bad situation from getting worse.
Do’s and Don’ts following a Crash
In the minutes immediately following an accident, maintaining your composure is essential. Take the six steps below to protect yourself:
DO:
- Move your car to the shoulder, or off the road. If your car is drivable, move it out of the flow of traffic to prevent subsequent accidents.
- Call 911 if it seems as if someone needs or requests medical attention.
- Exchange information with other car owner: name, contact information, make and model of vehicle, driver’s license number, insurance carrier and policy number.
- Take photos or video of the scene and the accident damage, if possible. Be sure to note the time of day and weather conditions.
- Report the accident to your insurance company.
- Call the police, if necessary. Maryland law does not require you to report every car accident to the police. There are six circumstances in which you are required to report an accident:
- An occupant of one of the vehicles is hurt;
- A driver in the accident is drunk;
- A vehicle needs to be towed;
- A driver cannot or refuses to exchange information;
- A driver is not licensed;
- A driver flees the scene of the collision.
Just as important as knowing what to do following a crash, is knowing what NOT to do. The five steps below can help:
DON’T:
- Exit the vehicle until you’re sure it’s safe.
- Move any person who may be hurt or injured. Wait for paramedics.
- Leave the scene of an accident until you’ve exchanged information with the other driver(s).
- Apologize or admit fault, even if you think you’re to blame for the accident. An apology could be used against you later, regardless of whether you were fully responsible.
- Share details of your insurance policy — such as coverage limits or deductible — with the other driver.
If you are a Rockville or Bethesda resident, or you live in the greater Metropolitan-Washington D.C. area, and you would like to find out how our experienced Maryland injury lawyer can help you, call (301) 251-1286 to schedule a free consultation today.