What You Should Do if You are Involved in an Auto Accident!
Stop!
The operator of a vehicle involved in an accident causing injury to person or property is required to stop and give his name, address and show his driver's license to the person who is injured or whose property is damaged or to a police officer. Failure to stop can result in serious criminal consequences.
Render Aid to Injured Persons
If anyone is injured:
- Render first aid, if qualified;
- Stop bleeding by applying direct pressure with a clean cloth;
- Call a doctor or ambulance; and
- Do not move an injured person in any way that could possibly add to injuries. Make person as comfortable as possible.
Protect the Scene
You may be liable for damages to approaching vehicles unless they are properly warned. If the highway is obstructed at night, illuminate the scene with flares, reflectors or flashlight if possible. Vehicles should not be left in a position of danger on highway if they can be moved nor should passengers remain in such a vehicle.
Call Police
Request investigation by City or State Police or Parish Sheriff. Their report may help you later in proving any claim for civil damages.
Write Down All Information
Don't trust your memory. Use the form on the back of this pamphlet to gather the facts.
- Measure skid marks;
- Step off distances;
- Get names and addresses of all witnesses. If they refuse to identify themselves, write down their license numbers; and
- Get names of insurance company and policy number on other autos in accident.
Be Careful What You Say
- Do not comment on the cause of the accident and do not admit fault even if you think you were in the wrong. You may learn later that the other driver was equally at fault or more so.
- You may be physically or emotionally upset to such an extent that you are unable to accurately appraise the situation. There will be time for explanations later.
- Do not discuss the accident with the other parties or spectators - just get the FACTS.
See Your Doctor
Serious injuries do not always result in immediate pain. If there is the slightest chance you or your passengers may be injured, see a doctor immediately and ask your passengers to do likewise.
Consult Your Lawyer
The sooner your lawyer is brought into the matter, the better he or she can advise you and protect your rights. Your lawyer can obtain statements from witnesses while their memories are fresh and take other steps to insure the true facts are preserved. Get your lawyer's advice before giving any interviews or statements to investigators or insurance company adjusters.
Inform Your Insurance Company
Failure to promptly notify your insurance company of the accident in writing could be grounds for voiding your policy.
Report the Accident to the Department of Public Safety
A written report (SR10) is required to be filed with the Department of Public Safety within ten days of any accident in which there is any injury, death or property damage exceeding $250.00. An official SR10 report form can be obtained from the Police, Sheriff or the Department of Public Safety.
