Your Responsibilities in an Accident: Stop at the Scene

Your Responsibilities if Involved in an Accident

It cannot be stressed enough: Fleeing the scene of an accident, a hit-and-run is a severe crime in all states, including the District of Columbia.

If you are involved in a crash or collision, you must stop immediately and remain at the scene.

If there are no injuries or death, move your vehicle off the roadway and park safely on the shoulder. Leaving your car in a traffic lane or busy intersection may cause additional accidents or injuries.

Turn on emergency flashers. Use flares or warning triangles if you have them. Be careful with flares if there is a gasoline leak or fumes.

Turn off the ignition of all wrecked vehicles.

If you parked a short distance from the accident scene, return immediately, but avoid walking or standing in traffic lanes. Prioritize safety.

Injuries

If the crash caused injuries, you must call for professional help. The easiest way is to call 9-1-1. Make sure you know where you are, be ready to answer questions, and provide information about any injuries and how many people need help. Until professional help arrives, you must give as much aid as possible.

Try to stop any bleeding, check for breathing, and keep the injured person warm.

There are two things you should never do:

Do not move an injured person unless there is an immediate danger, such as a car fire. You could worsen the injuries, especially if the head or neck is injured. Leave the helmet on if the injured person is a motorcyclist.

Do not give an injured person something to drink. Giving fluids can increase the risk of infection, further tissue damage, and getting liquid into the lungs. It also interferes with the care of professional emergency responders.

Insurance

In any traffic accident, you must show your driver’s license, vehicle registration certificate, and insurance card.

Provide your name and address to the other driver or persons involved or any peace officer.

You need proof of insurance or evidence of financial responsibility in basically all states. Make sure you always have it with you when you drive.

Take Notes

If you have a camera or a cell phone with a camera, use it.

Things you should write down:

• Driver’s date of birth.
• Driver’s license number and state.
• Driver’s name and address.
• Vehicle license plate number and state.
• Driver’s insurance company name.
• Policy number and expiration date.
• Policy holder’s name and address.
• Vehicle owner’s name and address.
• Injuries or property damage.

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