Synopsis
- Whether minor or catastrophic,
car accidents often involve some form of physical or emotional trauma to victims but
can also be incredibly hard on innocent bystanders who witnessed the wreck. - Some of these people feel nervous, confused and scared about how they might
be involved after witnessing an accident so they do not stop to help. - Since many car accident victims cannot think clearly, witnesses can offer
their time and provide their take on the scene to help crash investigators. - Accident witnesses can provide just a few simple facts to help others cope
with the situation and possibly even support a victim’s needs for
medical compensation, auto repairs, and lost wages.
3 Easy Steps to Follow After Witnessing a Car Accident
All across Indiana this year, drivers and passengers in cars, motorcycles,
trucks, SUVs, semi-trucks and scooters will witness a car wreck. From
simple fender benders to 10 car pile-ups on I-65, regardless of what happens
and where the accident takes place, drivers and their passengers have
to make the decision to keep driving or to stop and safely help accident
victims after calling 911. To avoid a deadly secondary crash, we want
to offer these simple tips to encourage road users to stop and help victims
get the services they need to recover safely.
- Review the Situation and Dial 911
It is important to let the authorities know of the accident as soon as
you arrive on scene. Dial 911 and tell the operator you’ve witnessed
a car accident and provide the address and any relevant details that will
help emergency personnel come fully prepared. Once in a safe area possibly
parked, away from the scene, use your mobile device to take any photographs
from afar or collect your thoughts on paper about what you witnessed.
Be prepared to provide these items to police.
- Find a Safe Place to Pull Over and Decide How You Can Help Best
This means pulling over to the shoulder of the road safely, turning on
your hazard lights, and ensuring that your vehicle is far enough away
from the scene that it will not cause danger to you, your passengers or
other traffic. Make sure your vehicle is parked in a spot that will allow
emergency personnel to access the area with ease. While being a good Samaritan
is important, you don’t want to align yourself with other dangers
or accident risks.
- Offer Assistance to Those in Need, Including Crash Scene Investigators
When there are many victims and the situation is heightened with fatalities
or serious injuries, it is right to use your best judgment. But simply
waiting on scene and collecting the story and photos for investigators
may feel like the best way to help and that is OK. When you do speak with
investigators, provide your contact information to them only. Don’t
change the story, and always be honest.
Following the crash, investigators may need your statement for reporting
or legal purposes. Being available to answer questions and confirm information
will be helpful for everyone involved, especially victims and their families.
Experienced Car Accident Attorneys in Indiana
The attorneys at Wagner Reese have more than 50 years of experience in
representing people who have been through a difficult injury and accident
experience. If you would like legal advice on an accident, our attorneys
will review your information after you call us at (888) 204-8440 to
schedule a free consultation. You can also share additional details with us by
submitting our online form.
