If you are involved in an accident, what is the first thing you should do?

The first step after being involved in an accident is to ensure safety and call 911 if necessary. This priority is crucial as it helps to prevent further injuries and secure the accident scene. If there are any injuries, calling emergency services immediately is vital to provide timely medical assistance. Additionally, ensuring safety may involve moving vehicles out of traffic if it is safe to do so, or turning on hazard lights to alert other drivers.

Focusing on the physical well-being of all parties involved establishes a foundation of responsibility and care in a high-stress situation. Once safety is addressed, you can then proceed with other necessary actions, such as exchanging information and documenting the incident. However, arriving at a secure state is the foremost priority.