According to Alaska Law, after an accident, the operator of a vehicle must immediately stop and remain at the scene of the accident. This is mandatory after an accident resulting in injury to a person, the death of a person, or in damage to a vehicle occupied by a person,
When an unattended vehicle is struck by another driver, the driver must make all reasonable efforts to contact the owner of the damaged vehicle. The responsible driver must leave a written statement providing name and contact information as well as detail the circumstances of the event if the owner cannot be found.
Report The Accident To Police
Contact the police and provide your location and identify all drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to gather all insurance information and contact information such as names, addresses, license number, and phone numbers of the other drivers. It’s also helpful to gather contact information from any witnesses. Having an officer arrive on scene is good support for the facts you provide to open an insurance claim.
See A Doctor
Go see a doctor to evaluate potential injuries if you are involved in an accident. Your medical needs are the first priority. You, or anyone else who is injured, should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible. If necessary, call for help and render aid to injured persons until help arrives.
Take Pictures At The Scene
Photos of the accident damage, visible injuries, and the surrounding area and roadway where the accident happened can support your insurance claim. Before leaving the scene of an accident, be sure to take pictures for future use.
Dashboard cameras are great because they can often provide video of exactly what happened during a collision. However, many people don’t have dashcams installed in their vehicles. Surrounding businesses, and even some homes, have outdoor video cameras that may have recorded the collision. It’s a good idea to ask the surrounding building owner’s whether or not they have cameras and are willing to review the recording and provide any evidence to support your insurance claim.
What Is A Hit And Run
On some occasions, whether due to being uninsured or for other reasons, a driver will flee the scene of an accident without providing contact and insurance information, or even rendering aid to potentially injured individuals. This is against Alaska law and is a hit and run.
If an accident occurs causing injury or damage to your vehicle you must take the appropriate steps. Abide by all relevant laws and seek medical care as soon as possible. Contact police, exchange contact information with other drivers and witnesses, take scene and injury photos. Remember to stay at the scene of an accident to await police and emergency services.
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Source: The Alaska State Legislature
Image Source: Unsplash
