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WHAT TO DO AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT

Ron Shepherd Dec. 28, 2017

Best practice guide:  What you need to do in case you are in an auto accident.

If you are involved in an accident or collision in Idaho, you must be prepared to act responsibly and in accordance with State law.  The following are some general guidelines and more specific requirements to follow in case of an accident.

FIRST 

As a responsible driver, you must never leave the scene of an accident.  Not only is it essential that you provide any necessary help immediately following an accident, but leaving an accident scene can result in having your driving privileges revoked or your license suspended.  You are also required to give information to the authorities in case you have witnessed an accident that results in injury or damage.

If you have been injured in a car accident, it is important to stay calm.  If possible, ensure that you are out of danger and not blocking any oncoming traffic.  Call 911 and wait for help.  Do not attempt to move if you are unable to do so.

EXCHANGE INFORMATION

If you are involved in an accident in Idaho, you are required to provide certain information to the other parties involved. Likewise, fellow motorists, passengers or pedestrians involved in the accident must share similar information with you.  Also, it is often wise to ask for the information of witnesses to the accident just in case you need to have them testify at a later date.

Key information to exchange after Accident Checklist includes:

  • Name, address and contact details.

  • Driver license number.

  • License plate number of the vehicles involved.

  • Auto insurance information for the motorists involved.

It may also be useful to take photographs at the scene of the accident.
If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make an effort to find the owner or driver, and follow these same procedures.  If you are unable to locate the owner of an unattended vehicle, you are required to leave a note indicating your name and contact information, and a brief description of the accident.

REPORTING AN ACCIDENT TO THE IDAHO TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT

You are not required to report any accidents to the Idaho Transport Department. However, it is mandatory to report certain accidents to the Idaho police.  An accident must be reported if any of the following apply:

  • The accident caused injury or death.

  • The accident resulted in property damage exceeding $1500.

Any failure to report an accident that meets the above conditions, regardless of whether you were at fault, may result in your driving license being suspended.