What to Do When in an Accident in Columbia, SC
According to the National Safety Council, 1 in every 8 drivers will be involved in a motor vehicle accident this year. Are you prepared if you turn out to be that 1 in 8? Jim Hudson Hyundai wants to make you know what to do and what questions to ask should you find yourself involved in an accident, so here is what to do when in an accident in or around Columbia, SC.
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Stop Your Vehicle
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Only do this if it is clear, safe, and legal to do so.
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Move the Vehicle
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Move your vehicle out of the traveled roadway if it is clear, safe, and legal to do so. In some states, it is against the law to move the vehicle from the place where the accident occurred. Check the ordinance in your area.
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Turn Off the Ignition
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Both cars involved should turn off their engines.
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Make a First Aid Check
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Take stock of all persons involved in the accident and see if anyone is hurt.
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Call the Authorities
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Call the police and, if necessary, emergency medical services.
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Mark the Scene
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Use flares or retroreflective triangles to make out the scene of the accident, if you have any.
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Gather Names
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Use our helpful Accident Information Form to gather the names of all persons in the motor vehicles and people who witnesses the accident.
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Draw Up a Diagram
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Make a quick diagram of where the vehicle occupants were seated and indicate the vehicles' direction of travel and lane. Also note the date, time, and weather conditions.
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Get the Other License Number
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Use the Accident Information Form and write down the license number of the other driver on it. Ask to see their license in order to acquire this number.
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Exchange Insurance Company Information
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Do not discuss "fault" or make statements about the accident to anyone but the police.
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Get a Police Report
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Acquire a copy of the police report of the accident from the local precinct.
Now you know what to do when in an accident in or around Columbia, SC. Be sure to keep a copy of our Accident Information Form handy inside your vehicle, preferably in your glove compartment with the rest of your driver information. Hopefully you will never need to use it! From all of us at Jim Hudson Hyundai, drive safely and responsibly! Please contact us with any questions, comments or concerns you may have! Be sure to bring your vehicle to Jim Hudson Hyundai’s service department for any repairs!
*The purpose of the information included on this website page and/or Accident Information Form is to help in case of an accident. All information contained herein is reference material only. Jim Hudson Hyundai is not responsible for any potential damages or costs incurred as a result of following any or all of the reference material above.
