Military Police Traffic Section
|
Commercial: (845) 938-4765
|
DSN: 688-4765
|
|
EMERGENCIES: 911
|
|
What do I do when I get into an
accident?
1. Stop!!
Anyone who gets into an accident must stop. Leaving the scene is also
known as "hit & run" and can be a felony. This
includes hitting property, animals or pedestrians.
2. Ascertain if there are any injuries. If there are, call (or get
someone to call) 911. If you are not injured but there are other
injuries try to be of assistance, but never move an injured person
unless it is to pull them to safety!
3. Carry a disposable camera. Take pictures of all damage and
participants in the accident. This will document the damage at the time
of the accident, the actual people involved and their condition at that
time and this will help prevent fraudulent claims. Take pictures of any
weather conditions, skid marks, road obstructions or any other factor
that might have contributed to the accident. Give the pictures to your
insurance company.
4. Do not get into arguments with the drivers of any other vehicles.
Do not discuss the accident, how it happened, or who might be at fault.
There may be factors that you are not aware of that contributed to the
accident.
5. Move your vehicles out of traffic if there are no injuries. You
need to clear the street so as not to be a hazard to other vehicles.
6. Exchange all pertinent information with the other drivers such as
drivers license, registration and insurance information. You must give
this information by law.
7. Look for friendly witnesses. Get their names and telephone
numbers.
8. Do not accept any monetary compensation at the time of the
accident. Medical and repair bills are often much more than you
anticipate.
9. Try to remain calm no matter what happens. Often we are upset and
not thinking clearly after an accident. If you are in a potential
"hit & run" situation, try to gather your thoughts and
get the license number of the vehicle that hit you. Never engage in a
high speed chase to catch the "hit & runner".
10. Always carry emergency equipment in your car: (The PMO
recommends the following:)
A. Portable cellular phone / citizens band radio (CB)
B. Flashlight
C. First aid kit
D. Flat tire kit
E. Reflective triangles or flares
F. Blanket
G. Comfortable walking shoes
H. Your membership card to an auto club (very worthwhile!!)
I. Calling card or pre-paid calling card.
J. Disposal/Instant Camera
< Return to the main Traffic Section
Page.
|
