Here's a checklist that teens can keep in the car:
- Remain calm.
- If someone is hurt, call for help - don’t hesitate.
- Put on your hazard lights.
- Watch for oncoming traffic if out of the car.
- Don’t get out of the car if you don’t trust the other party - call for help, and wait. Instruct the other driver to drive to a public place before getting out if you’re unsure and it feels unsafe.
- Never argue with the other person - call the police if it’s needed.
- If the accident is anything other than very minor, call the police for documentation and intervention (know your area's laws around this).
- Exchange insurance and driver's license information.
- Use the camera on your phone to take pictures of your car and theirs (including their license plate). If you can safely move your car to the shoulder, do so, but only after pictures.
- Call your mother and father. Leave a detailed message. Text them only after voice messages have been left.
- Do not admit fault, or come to some sort of agreement on damages or payment. This will be worked out later.
- Get the names, addresses and phone numbers of witnesses. Do not discuss the accident with them, or the other driver(s).
For more things young drivers need to know, check out our Driving DOs and DON'Ts book.
