WHAT TO DO IN CASE OF AN AUTO ACCIDENT

1. STOP!
No matter how minor an accident may be, the failure to stop can
result in serious criminal consequences. If possible, stop your
vehicle at the point nearest the accident scene without obstructing
traffic more than necessary.

2. RENDER AID. If anyone is injured:
   1. Render first aid to the extent that you are qualified;
   2. Stop bleeding;
   3. Call a doctor or ambulance or both;
   4. Do not move an injured person in any way that could possible add
       to his or her injury unless there is immediate danger from
       explosion, fire, or traffic.

3. PROTECT THE SCENE AND THOSE INVOLVED FROM FURTHER
DAMAGE OR INJURY
If the accident has obstructed the roadway take the measure to
adequately warn approaching drivers. If the highway is obstructed
at night, illuminate the accident scene if possible. Do not forget to
use the warning flashers that are standard equipment on most
vehicles.

4. CALL A POLICE OFFICER
State and local police officers are trained accident investigators.
Their expertise may be invaluable in establishing the reason the
accident occurred.

5. GATHER INFORMATION AND WRITE IT DOWN.
Don't trust your memory. Use the form in this booklet. Don't guess
be specific.
   1. Measure skid marks.
   2. Step off distances.
   3. Obtain names and addresses of witnesses.
Participants in automobile accidents are required by law to exhibit
their driver's license to each other and provide the registration
numbers of all vehicles involved in the accident, insurance carriers
of every person providing information, insurance policy numbers,
and the name and address of local agent of the insurance carrier.
Record that information on this form so that it will be readily
available if you are involved in an accident.
Vehicle Registration
Number________________________________________
Insurance Carrier _________________________________________________
Policy Number
_____________________________________________________
Name and address of
agent:_________________________________________

6. BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU SAY.
Even if you feel you might be at fault make no admissions as you
may later learn that the other driver was equally at fault or more so.
Statements made during the emotion and excitement of an accident
may be misconstrued, or later misquoted by others. Discuss the
accident only with the investigating officer, your attorney, and your
insurance company.

7. SEE YOUR DOCTOR
Serious injuries do not always result in immediate pain or
bloodshed. If there is the slightest chance you may be injured,
consult a doctor or hospital.

8. INFORM YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY IMMEDIATELY
Your insurance company employs trained investigators who will
attempt to develop all evidence for your defense. Failure to
promptly notify your insurer may void your policy and leave you
without insurance coverage for damages resulting from the
accident.

9. CALL OUR OFFICE PROMPTLY.
If you anticipate filing a civil claim for damage or face trial on a
traffic violation charge, the sooner your lawyer is brought into the
matter, the better he or she can advise you and protect your rights.
Your lawyer can obtain statements from the witnesses while their
memories are fresh, and do many other things to assure that the
true facts are preserved. Get your lawyer's advise before giving any
interviews or statements except to representatives of your
insurance carrier.

10. REPORT THE ACCIDENT TO THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
A report must be filed with the Department of Public Safety soon
after the accident unless the accident was investigated by a police
officer and a police report filed by the officer. Accident report forms
may be obtained from your local police or sheriff's department.