Most people don’t know the steps to take after witnessing an accident, mainly because the procedures are not discussed enough in the media and by law enforcement.
Many eyewitnesses don’t even stop to survey an accident scene and drive on, expecting someone else to call the police to sort things out.
If you are in Florida, there are specific procedures you need to keep in mind in case you witness an auto accident. These include:
Stop and Get Out of The Way
If the accident occurred in front of you, drive right past the scene and park at a safe distance from it. If you choose to stop behind the scene, be sure to stay about 100 meters away.
This way, you will not hinder the emergency personnel and the police from accessing the scene and potentially saving lives.
Check for Casualties
The first and most important thing to do after arriving at an accident scene is to look for survivors.
While the most obvious place to check is inside vehicles, check the bushes around as it is common for people not wearing seat belts to be thrown out of cars during accidents.
Call for Assistance
After confirming the casualties and any fatalities, call 911 or ask someone to call 911 immediately. The emergency response time in Florida is relatively quick, and the police are never that far behind.
Once the police arrive, be prepared to take a few questions regarding the accident. Among the questions they are likely to ask to include the following;
- The exact spot where the accident happened
- The number of survivors who may need help
- The conditions of the survivors
In rare cases, the personal details of witnesses are taken for future reference. You should therefore be prepared to give your name and address.
Be Ready to Give Testimony
While it is not mandatory to stop or help after accidents, it is the right thing to do, especially if there are casualties.
So, if you decide to stay around after the accident, you can help the victims by giving your testimony. This is especially important if the accident occurred due to reckless driving or speeding by a particular driver.
Giving your testimony will help hold the negligent person accountable and ensure the victims get duly compensated.
Are you looking for an experienced personal injury attorney in Orlando, Florida? Get in touch with us today.
