As any auto accident attorney will tell you, if you see an injury occur—whether it’s a car or motorcycle crash—it’s smart to stay on the scene. Your role as a witness can be valuable in potential legal proceedings. Additionally, you can call for help and ensure nobody else gets hurt. Find out how to proceed.

What to Do if You Witness an Accident

1. Keep Yourself Safe

You may be tempted to immediately help victims, but do not put your own safety at risk. For instance, if you have seen a car crash, do not go near broken glass or leaking fluids.

2. Call Emergency Services

Call 911 and report the incident immediately. Keep your cool so you can give precise information about where you are and what has occurred.

3. Check on the Victims

If you have called for help and see that the scene is safe, you can approach to check on the victims. If they ask you questions about what happened, avoid specifics—do not place blame on any one party. 

4. Don’t Provide Medical Help

Unless you are a trained EMT, do not provide medical care. A mistake can cause more harm than good. For instance, if you break a person’s rib while performing CPR, you could ultimately be liable and face a lawsuit from an injury attorney.

5. Provide Your Statement

Wait until the police arrive. Let them know that you witnessed the incident. They will want to get your name and number, and take your statement about what happened. If the accident results in legal action, you may be contacted by an auto accident attorney to testify on what you saw.

Peck & Peck Attorneys at Law has been serving the greater Hartford, CT, area with top-quality legal services for more than 35 years. The father-and-son team of personal injury and auto accident attorneys is committed to helping victims of car injuries and other incidents get the justice they deserve. Get an overview of their injury settlement and malpractice law services online. For a consultation with an auto accident attorney, call (860) 236-4782.