Experiencing a car accident is undoubtedly traumatic. However, witnessing one is no less disturbing. You may see broken glasses from the cars’ windows and windshields, people in pain, blood, and whatnot. If you have been in a situation where you wanted to help the victims of a car accident but did not know what to do, this blog is for you.
Car accidents can cause catastrophic injuries. You may experience long-term injuries that may prevent you from attending college or from working, significantly affecting the quality of your life. In such cases, Los Angeles car accident attorneys can make sure you get the deserved compensation to manage your damages.
Things to do after witnessing a car accident:
- Call 911.
If you are a witness to a car accident and wish to help the victims, the easiest and helpful thing you can do is call 911. Many people assume that the victims or other people may have already called the police. However, the victims may not always be in a condition to call because of their injuries.
- Make sure you are safe.
If a car accident happens nearby, move your vehicle to a safer side of the road. If your vehicle is near the accident scene, make sure you move it to allow room for emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire brigadiers, and police cars. If you see smoke coming out of the car, move as far away from the scene as possible and inform the police immediately.
- Check on the victims.
If the accident site is safe to enter, approach the victims and see if they need any help. Ask them if they need anything, such as a bottle of water or a phone to call the emergency if theirs have broken in the accident. Remember that it is not the time to judge which party was at fault. A responsible citizen should help car accidents in whichever way they are able to.
- Do not blame any of the parties involved.
It is not your place to judge and make decisions about who caused the accident or resolve the fights between the two parties. A car accident is an emotional and painful time for anyone, and one should choose words that provide comfort and reassurance rather than more harm.
- Stay and offer a statement.
There is no legal obligation for witnesses to stay at the accident site. However, if you wish to help the innocent party get their compensation, you can stay until the police arrive and make a statement. However, remember that you may need to provide your contact details to the police in case they need to reach you later.
