Witnessed a Car Accident: How You Can Help

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While you are not legally obligated to remain at the scene of an accident if you only witnessed it, it is the right thing to do.

Those involved may require medical care, and any statement you can provide to the police may help resolve legal issues down the line.

If you come across the scene of an accident and happen to see it as it occurred, here are some steps to take immediately after.

Make Sure You Are Not in the Path of Danger

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Call 911

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Only Render Aid Once You’re Asked to by Dispatchers

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Stay on the Scene and Offer Your Statement to the Police

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Seeing an accident occur can be scary and may even be traumatic for some, especially if it is severe. Consider speaking with a therapist or doctor if you find yourself struggling to deal with what you witnessed.

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Witnessed a Car Accident: How You Can Help

While you are not legally obligated to remain at the scene of an accident if you only witnessed it, it is the right thing to do.

Those involved may require medical care, and any statement you can provide to the police may help resolve legal issues down the line.

If you come across the scene of an accident and happen to see it as it occurred, here are some steps to take immediately after.

Make Sure You Are Not in the Path of Danger

If you were walking when you witnessed an accident, stay in the pedestrian area.

Call 911

When you pull over, call 911 and tell them your exact location. They will want to know the nearest cross street, so try to determine your location as soon as possible.

Only Render Aid Once You’re Asked to by Dispatchers

You should not attempt to move someone who is injured unless they are in imminent danger (such as a vehicle fire or in the path of oncoming traffic).

Stay on the Scene and Offer Your Statement to the Police

Once the police arrive, one of the officers will likely approach you to make a witness statement. Your witness statement should include details that help the police determine the at-fault driver.

Seeing an accident occur can be scary and may even be traumatic for some, especially if it is severe. Consider speaking with a therapist or doctor if you find yourself struggling to deal with what you witnessed.

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