Check on Others Involved
There are many steps one should take following an accident. We discuss them in this series “What To Do In a Car Accident.” The third step is to check on others involved. This means your passengers, the other drivers and passengers, pedestrians and anyone else injured or affected by the crash. This was discussed briefly in the previous article, but here is some more information about this important step and why you shouldn’t overlook it.
An accident is a scary situation, no matter how minor it is. Your car may be damaged and you may suffer injuries to your back, neck or head. Emotions may be running high.
During all of this, you may simply decide to leave the accident scene, especially if you were not injured. Not only is this immoral, but it’s also illegal. After a crash, you may be worried only about yourself, but remember that there are likely others involved, unless you lost control and hit a tree or some other object.
Before leaving the accident scene, you must not only exchange information with other drivers but also check on them to ensure they are OK. Even if you feel fine, the other driver or passengers may be seriously hurt.
Checking for Injuries
After determining that you are OK and not seriously injured, check on the others involved. Look for other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Talk to them and get an idea of their physical state. If you are unsure, call 911 and get medical help. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Don’t just stop at calling 911, though. It could take some time for emergency responders to arrive at the accident scene. Do what you can to assist the victims until medical help arrives. Prevent them from moving and keep them stabilized. If there is bleeding involved, use your clothes or other items to stop the flow.
Helping Car Accident Injury Victims
When helping victims, keep your emotions in check. If the victims are seriously injured, you may be feeling guilty. However, don’t say anything that can incriminate you. Refrain from apologizing or saying “I’m sorry.” The accident might not even be your fault, but these two words are considered an admission of guilt and can quickly make you the liable party. You may think apologizing is the polite thing to do, but it will only cause more harm than good. Instead, simply do what you can to render aid and speak as little as possible.
You should call the police as well to file a report. This will help you when it comes times to file a claim with your insurance company.
Motorists have a duty to keep themselves and others safe when traveling on the roadways. Be a polite and respectful motorist and be sure to look out for others following an accident. If you have been injured in a car accident, taking the proper steps will help you recover compensation for your injuries and other damages.