What You Should Do if You've Been in an Auto Accident

Do you know what you should do if you’ve been in an auto accident? According to the City of Colorado Springs, there are approximately 11,000 traffic accidents per year. This month, I have compiled some information for you and your family to help you in the event that you do have a car accident. Here are the steps that you or someone you know should take:

• If anyone appears to be injured, offer assistance and call 911 for both police and medical help.
• Generally, you should not move your car or the debris until you are instructed to do so by the police. On some highways, signs will direct you to move your vehicle immediately.
• Initially, do not discuss the accident with anyone other then the investigating police officer. Make sure to tell him/her about any injuries you or your passengers have sustained.
• Make notes of any statements made by the driver or occupants of the other vehicle(s) as to how the accident occurred.
• Try to get the name, address, and phone number of any witnesses.
• If you believe the driver of the other vehicle may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, tell this to the investigating police officer.
• Contact an attorney if you have any questions about your medical benefits, lost wages, or potential bodily injury claim.

I hope that you never need to use this information, but if you are in an accident you may find our Auto Accident Checklist helpful to record information. If you have teenage drivers, you may want to go over this information with them. If you have any questions or would like a copy of the Auto Accident Checklist, please give us a call.