Driving in the U.S.

In the event of a car accident, follow safety guidelines issued by the state DMV. Check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If someone requires medical attention, report the accident by calling 911 (the free direct number for emergency services with the local police), or have someone else call for you. If possible, do not move your car until the police arrive and have been able to assess the accident scene. While waiting for the police, exchange the following information with the driver of the other car:

1. Name, telephone number, and license ID number
2. License plate number, model, and year of the car
3. Registration number and expiration date
4. Name of the insurance company and policy number

If there are any witnesses, ask for their names, telephone numbers, and addresses in the event of insurance problems. If you have hit a parked car, you must leave your name, phone number, and license plate number on a piece of paper and put it under the windshield wiper so they may contact you. Also write down the car’s license number and model of the car.

Failure to leave your information or report the accident is considered a crime.