No one wakes up and says, "I think I will be involved in a traffic crash today." Yet, in 2013, there were 139,294 crashes reported in the state of Missouri. There were 757 people killed and 49,532 people injured in 2013.
Even with these crash numbers, most people still don't think they can be involved in a traffic crash. Typically, after someone is involved in a crash the question they ask is, "Now, what do I do?"
The traffic crash needs to be reported as soon as possible for several reasons. Responding emergency personnel need know the location, number of vehicles involved, type of damage, and the extent of any injuries. This information is vital to insure the proper equipment and personnel are sent to the scene.
Other helpful information would include whether there is anyone trapped in the vehicle or the presence of fire. Remember: Never approach a vehicle if there are downed power lines; report that information as well.
Missouri law requires persons involved in traffic crashes to make a reasonable effort to move their vehicles, so they do not block the flow of traffic. However, if there are injuries or a fatality involved in the crash the vehicles should not be moved. In traffic crashes involving injury or a fatality a reasonable effort should be made to keep the scene from becoming any worse. When traffic is obstructed and begins to backup there is the risk of secondary crashes at the same location.
When there are injuries involved in a traffic crash the occupants should not be moved as this could cause further injury. It is better to leave injured occupants in their vehicles and let responding emergency personnel handle the situation as they have the proper equipment. Only when death or the risk of further injury is present should you consider efforts to act on your own.
If you choose to do so make sure you consider your own safety. Do you have rubber gloves or a CPR mask? The "Good Samaritan" laws will protect a person as long as they do not exceed their level of training.
The scene of a traffic crash poses other dangers to those involved and those rendering assistance. Passing motorists often are paying attention to the traffic crash and can put those involved with the scene at risk of being struck. The presence of hazardous materials, the terrain, and weather conditions are additional dangers.
When law enforcement officers arrive they will need to see involved parties' driver's licenses, registration, and proof of insurance. It is also a good idea for the involved parties to exchange information in order to help them when reporting the crash to their insurance companies. Remember: A report must be made if there is property damage in excess of $500 dollars, if there is injury, or if there is a fatality.
Involvement in a traffic crash is traumatic no matter how serious the crash. By following the law and these guidelines, we can make the scene safer for those involved as well as emergency services personnel and other motorists.