Teen drivers are statistically the most likely to be involved in a car accident. Connecticut law requires that drivers who are involved in a wreck stop at the scene and render aid. Typically, this means calling for police, medical or other forms of assistance. Other actions might also need to be taken at a crash scene depending on the specifics of the incident. If you are a teen who is ever a victim of a car crash, keep the following in mind.
Exchange information
You’ll want to exchange insurance and contact information with the other drivers involved in the wreck. If your car was the only one involved in a motor vehicle accident, you’ll likely be asked to provide your license, registration and proof of insurance by whoever responds to the crash scene. In the event that the other driver is hostile, you can wait for the police to arrive and facilitate the process of obtaining necessary data.
Take pictures or videos
Pictures of your car or a video of the crash scene can be added to the claim sent to your insurance company. It can also be used as evidence during settlement talks or if your car accident case goes to trial. You are encouraged to keep a camera in your car specifically for you to snap photos after a wreck. However, you can also use your phone to take and submit photos or videos to your insurance provider.
Don’t admit fault
Apologizing for your actions or saying that you could have done something to avoid the crash implies that you did something wrong. At a minimum, you don’t know if you could have done anything to avoid the wreck, which means that you could heap liability upon yourself for no reason. You should also avoid saying that you aren’t hurt as it could damage your chances of obtaining compensation if injury symptoms present later.
If you are involved in a motor vehicle crash, stay at the scene and don’t panic. In addition to calling the police, you might want to call a parent or trusted adult to help walk you through the post-accident process.
