Do You Call 911 for a Car Accident?
Car accidents can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. One of the first questions that come to mind is whether or not to call 911. The answer is: it depends. Here are some factors to consider when deciding whether to call for help:
When to Call 911 After a Car Accident
Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, no matter how minor the injuries may seem. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
Additionally, call 911 if there is significant property damage. This includes damage to your vehicle, the other vehicles involved, or any nearby property. A police report will be necessary to file an insurance claim, and the police can also help to direct traffic and prevent further accidents.
If you are unsure whether or not to call 911, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call. The dispatcher will ask you a few questions to help determine the severity of the accident and whether or not emergency services are needed.
Here are some additional tips for calling 911 after a car accident:
- Stay calm and speak clearly.
- Provide the dispatcher with your location, the number of vehicles involved, and the number of people injured.
- If possible, take photos of the accident scene.
- Don’t leave the scene of the accident until the police arrive.
Do You Call 911 for a Car Accident?
When you’re involved in a car accident, it can be hard to know what to do. Should you call 911? Or can you handle it yourself? Here’s a quick guide to help you make the decision.
When to Call 911
In general, you should call 911 if:
- There are any injuries. Even minor injuries can be serious, so it’s always best to get medical attention as soon as possible.
- There is significant property damage. If the damage to your car or the other vehicle is extensive, you’ll need to call the police to file a report.
- The other driver is acting erratically. If the other driver is drunk, high, or otherwise impaired, you should call 911 to report them.
- You’re not sure what to do. If you’re not sure whether or not you should call 911, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call.
When Not to Call 911
There are a few situations where you may not need to call 911, such as:
- The accident is minor and there are no injuries or property damage. If you’re both able to drive away from the accident, and there’s no damage to either car, you can probably handle it yourself.
- You’ve already exchanged information with the other driver. If you have the other driver’s name, address, phone number, and insurance information, you can file a report with your insurance company later.
- You’re not feeling well, but you don’t think it’s serious. If you’re feeling dizzy, nauseous, or have a headache, but you don’t think it’s serious, you can probably wait to see a doctor later.
What to Do If You’re Not Sure
If you’re not sure whether or not you should call 911, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call. The dispatcher will be able to ask you a few questions to help you decide whether or not you need to call 911.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- Stay calm and collected. It’s natural to feel shaken up after a car accident, but it’s important to stay calm and collected so you can make the best decisions.
- Pull over to the side of the road. If you can, pull over to the side of the road so you don’t block traffic.
- Check for injuries. First, check yourself for injuries. Then, check your passengers and the other driver.
- Call 911 if necessary. If there are any injuries, property damage, or the other driver is acting erratically, call 911 immediately.
- Exchange information with the other driver. If you’re able, exchange information with the other driver, including your name, address, phone number, and insurance information.
- Take pictures of the accident scene. If you have a camera, take pictures of the accident scene, including the damage to your car, the other car, and any injuries.
- Report the accident to your insurance company. As soon as possible, report the accident to your insurance company.
