After an accident, what steps should you take in order?

• A. Drive away to avoid traffic.
• B. Wait for police to arrive and do nothing else.
• C. Stop, check for injuries, call emergency services if needed, and exchange names, addresses, license numbers, registrations, and insurance information; document the scene.
• D. Call a friend and report later.

Answer: (C)

After a crash, the priority is safety and fulfilling legal responsibilities. Stop at once, check for injuries to yourself and others, and call emergency services if there are injuries or the scene is dangerous. Then exchange essential information—names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registrations, and insurance details—with the other party. Document the scene with notes and, if possible, photos of damages, positions of the vehicles, and road conditions. This information helps with medical decisions, insurance claims, and any legal requirements.

This is the best approach because it ensures immediate help for anyone injured, prevents the illegal act of leaving the scene, and provides the evidence and details needed to handle insurance and potential legal processes. Leaving, doing nothing, or delaying the report doesn’t address injuries or legal duties and can lead to serious consequences.