How to Call the Police in the Event of an Auto Accident

Your first call after an accident should be to the police.

Getting into an auto accident is traumatizing no matter if it's a minor fender-bender or a more serious crash. The steps you take immediately following an accident are important. Calling the police in the event of a car accident helps to protect you from legal problems that might result from the incident. Filing an accident report once the police are on the scene will provide you with documentation to supply to your insurance company to help the claim filing process along.

Instructions

1. Take a deep breath and try to calm yourself down. Check on any passengers in the car, looking for signs of injury.

2. Scan the road for a mile marker, street sign or landmark, if you're in an unfamiliar area. This information will help the police find you.

3. Dial 9-1-1 on your phone to report the accident. When the operator answers, explain that you have been in an accident. Give the 9-1-1 operator as much detailed information as possible about your location, any injuries, the number of cars involved, etc. If people are injured, the operator will send medical help as well as the police.

4. Follow the operator's instructions carefully. You might be asked to stay on the line until the police arrive.

Tips & Warnings

• If the accident is minor, move your vehicle to the side of the road, out of the way of traffic.

• If possible, get yourself and any passengers out of the car and stand away from the road.

• Only speak to the police and your insurance agent about the accident, and give them the facts only. Do not speculate about the cause, who was at fault, etc. until you have talked to your lawyer.

References

• 911.gov: When to Call 911
• State Farm Insurance: What to Do After an Auto Accident
• The Patterson Law Firm: What to Do in the Event of an Automobile Accident