Drivers and passengers can be injured anytime, anyplace. That’s why such occurrences are called accidents – an unexpected, unfortunate situation in which one is rarely prepared. Knowing what to do after an accident can make the experience a less frightening one and decrease the chance of unnecessary complications.
If the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury, death or entrapment is physically incapable of helping other people who were injured or entrapped during the accident or contacting law enforcement about the accident, then passengers in the vehicle who are at least 18 years old, or who are at least 15 years old and hold learner’s permits or driver’s licenses, and who are capable of helping other people or contacting law enforcement should immediately help injured or entrapped people involved in the accident. This assistance should include removing any entrapped passenger from the vehicle in which he or she is trapped, and may include taking injured people from the scene of the accident to a physician or hospital for medical treatment. Capable passengers must also immediately give notice of the accident by the quickest means of communication to the local police department, office of the county sheriff or nearest state police post.
In a single-vehicle accident that causes damage to another vehicle or property and the owner is not present, you must leave your name, address, and telephone number on a note where the owner will see it. If the damaged property is in a location where a note would not be easily found, you must notify law enforcement with your name, address, and telephone number.
After an accident, you must provide proof to the BMV that automobile liability insurance or other proofs of financial responsibility were in effect on the date of the accident. Ask your insurance provider to electronically send the proof of insurance (Certificate of Compliance) to the BMV on your behalf. These instructions are general guidelines only. Each accident scenario may be different, and there are various responsibilities for different types of accidents.
Bargersville Police Department accident reports are now available at BUYCRASH.COM for a nominal fee. An information card will be issued by the officer at the time of the incident. This card will state the date of collision, operator’s last name and report number. BUYCRASH.COM can also be reached at 1-866- 847-1301.