Everyone who drives knows, or should know, that they face the possibility of getting into an accident. Still, in the aftermath of a car accident, many people don’t know what they should do next. The state of Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles produces a driver’s manual that contains a section regarding how the state wants residents to behave in the case of a motor vehicle crash. The first thing you need to know is that if you are involved in accident, you must stop. This is true, even if you hit a parked car. It may be a crime for you leave the scene of an accident if someone has been injured. You must take care that your vehicle, if possible is off the roadway, so it is not a hazard to other drivers. Further, do not walk or stand around in traffic lanes, as you increase your chances of being hurt by other vehicles driving by. Do not go near any downed power lines, or smoke near an accident scene, as fuel may have been spilled. Do not move any injured individual unless there is an immediate danger to that person like a fire or likelihood of being struck by another vehicle.
Ensure that authorities are aware of the accident. Call 911 if necessary, and give the operator relevant information, including that there is a fire, if applicable. If an injury has occurred, you may provide basic first aid, such as checking for breathing or applying pressure to a wound on a person who is bleeding. Never give any injured person a drink, even water, unless instructed by a medical professional. If no injuries are apparent. You should exchange information with the other driver involved, including address, telephone number and insurance information. You may also want to record any damage done to the vehicles involved.
It is important to remember that the state of Connecticut has its own concerns when there is an accident, which generally revolve around public order, public safety and record-keeping. While one should do the right thing at the scene of an accident, the police and others do not necessarily have your own interests in mind at that time. If you are involved in a car accident caused by someone else, you may wish to consider speaking with a lawyer to see if you have the right to pursue compensation.
