Sometimes, all the safe driving, preparedness and experience in the world can’t prevent a mishap on the move. Accidents on the roadway are never a good thing, and in wintertime, they can be even more dangerous.
Before setting out this winter travel season, be sure to familiarize yourself with the following three tips to keep in mind after an accident. They could save your life.
GET VISIBLE
In the seconds and minutes after a crash, your ride is
a hazard to every other motorist on the road, especially if it can’t be moved from the roadway. Before exiting your ride, turn on your lights and hazard signals to give other drivers advanced warning. Once safely out of your ride, road flares and reflective safety triangles can be placed up the road for additional warning.
LEAVE THE CAR AND STAY WHERE YOU ARE
After an impact, leave your car where it is, and get yourself, and all of your passengers, to safety. Don’t attempt to push a damaged vehicle from the roadway, as this is a common cause of serious injuries. If the impact has left you unable to see (perhaps due to a destroyed windshield), forget pulling the car off of the road blindly. Activate your hazards, park the car where it is, and leave for safety. Never return to the car to fetch belongings, until first responders arrive and handle the traffic situation.
CALL FOR MEDICAL HELP, NO MATTER WHAT
Even if you figure the impact was minor, and that you’re feeling fine, call for medical help. According to numerous personal injury lawyers, injuries, including those related to the head and spinal-cord, may not present themselves until hours after a collision. Even if you feel fine, be sure to get checked out by a medical professional or paramedic, ASAP.