Motor vehicle accidents are all too common in Maricopa. There are so many vehicles driving at varying speeds on the roads. There are hundreds of distracted drivers. There are drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while behind the wheel. There is debris in the road. These are all reasons why accidents happen. Here’s what you shouldn’t do following a car accident in Arizona.
You should never leave the scene of an accident. This goes for those who have caused the accident and those involved who are the victims. Wait for the police, fire and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to arrive on scene. They will evaluate everyone involved and then transport to the hospital. Police will also tell you when you can leave the scene.
You should never move evidence, especially if the crash was so bad it might be a fatal investigation. This includes moving vehicles, debris, smearing blood or any other item on the scene that investigators will want to take pictures of at some point.
Never remain in your vehicle. If you are not injured badly, you should get out of the vehicle and move to a safe place off the road, if at all possible. If not, stay in the vehicle and put your flashers on so other vehicles do not hit you again.
Never take matters into your own hands. For example, if it was a hit and run, do not try to chase the person who hit you. It’s not worth getting into a second accident trying to track down the person who hit you.
Car accidents happen quite often in Maricopa. Some of them could be very minor while others can be downright tragic. Know what it is you should do if ever involved in a crash, even a minor one, so you do not put your rights in jeopardy.
