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5 Things to Do Immediately After a Car Accident

Wednesday, April 3, 2013 12:00

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(Before It's News)

Boston is a notoriously difficult city to drive in. The chances for getting into a car accident can be very high.

But do you know what to do if you hit another vehicle? What about if you strike a pedestrian or bicyclist?

An accident can be an extremely emotional and tense time, and you will not want to be completely unprepared. There are many important things you will need to do at the accident scene. Here are five things to remember:

Stay at the scene. Never flee an accident scene in a panic. If you do so, you invite criminal charges on top of any other liability for the accident. Remember that car accidents are common and oftentimes no one is to blame. So there is rarely ever any reason to run away.

Check on all drivers and passengers. Make sure everyone is safe following an accident, including yourself. If you get into a wreck on a busy street or highway, make sure that you get to a safe place first. Then you should check on your passengers and the passengers in the other vehicle. You may need to call for medical assistance.

Call the police. If the accident involves injuries or significant property damage, you may need to call 911. However, for minor fender-benders, police assistance may not be necessary.

Exchange relevant information. You will want to talk to the other driver and exchange information like names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information. If there are passengers in any of the vehicles, obtain their names, telephone numbers, and addresses as well. This may be your only opportunity to contact the other driver and possible witnesses, so you will want to make sure that you can reach them in the future.

Don’t apologize. Some people will naturally blurt out “I’m sorry” following an accident. But it may be best not do so, as you could be admitting liability. Car accident cases can be complex, and it can be very difficult to pinpoint liability. So don’t be overly apologetic.