5 Steps to Follow When Reporting an Accident

by Susan Evans

Here are five simple yet smart steps to follow if you need to report a highway accident, incident or emergency.

Step 1: Follow “Safety first” procedures.

  • Be sure you are safe.
  • If you are driving, pull over to a safe spot, turn on your hazards and stop the car before calling for help.
  • Be watchful of the potential for additional accidents caused by the first accident.
  • Stay out of the path of oncoming vehicles.

WHN TIP – Be Safe, Be Smart: Never EVER risk your own safety.

Step 2: Write down the needed information

  • Location of the emergency
  • Road name or number
  • City, State
  • Closest cross street or off-ramp, milepost, or another identifier
  • Direction of travel
  • Any distinguishing landmarks

Step 3: Call 911

Step 4: Describe the nature of the emergency

  • Then tell the operator what happened (crash, medical emergency, fire, crime) and then tell her everything in Step #1

Step 5: Provide Your Information

  • Your name
  • Cell number.
  • Stay on the line until the dispatcher says they have enough information.

WHN TIP – Don’t Take Unnecessary Risks: Calling for trained, professional help is the best approach, although in an immediate life-threatening situation it may be appropriate to take rescue action provided the “rescuer” is not endangered.

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Photo Credit: Monkey Business Images

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