What To Do If You Come Across An Accident

Air date: 9/15/2003

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There were a staggering 6,394,000 car accidents in the United States during 2000. Over 2 million people (about one-third of all accidents) claimed injuries. The fact is, the more time that drivers spend behind the wheel and the more drivers on the streets, the more likely it is that you will come across a car accident. So, it is important to know what to do and not to do.

DO…

• If possible, stop, pull over to the side of the road and call 9-1-1. Be prepared to provide the following information:
  • Type of accident
  • Location of accident
  • Number of vehicles involved
  • Number of people injured
  • Any hazards (i.e., fire, downed power lines, leaking fluids, etc.)
• If you have to leave to call for help, designate a person to stay on scene until paramedics arrive
• Stay on the phone with the dispatcher and they will provide pre-arrival instructions
• Reassure patient help is on the way
• If emergency crews are working on an accident scene, slow down but do not stop. By stopping when emergency crews are on scene, you only tie up traffic and become part of the problem.

DON’T…

• Become a patient. Be aware of any hazards and stay away from the vehicles if any hazards do exist.
• Move any patients. By moving a patient, you may cause more injury.
• Leave the scene without giving your name and contact information to law enforcement personnel. They may need to follow-up with you afterward.

Additional Resources

American Automobile Association

450 Edison Way Reno, Nevada 89502 (775)858-5700 Fax (775)858-5720