Witnessing a car accident can be scary, but when you see a collision take place, your help may be essential. Even if the involved parties only need you to call a towing service for them, as a witness, staying at the scene and offering assistance can have a big impact. If you witness an accident, follow these steps to provide the aid that the affected drivers need.
Call 911
A common scenario called the Bystander Effect occurs when multiple people see an event. All of the witnesses assume that someone else will take action. Don’t fall into the trap of the Bystander Effect when you see a car accident. Call 911, even if you think that others may have already made the call. The operator will let you know if help is already on the way. It’s better to ensure that help is coming rather than delaying help by assuming incorrectly that someone else has already called.
Move People to Safety
If someone is in a dangerous position, such as in the middle of the road, move him or her to a safer spot, if you can do so without being injured. If other witnesses have gathered, encourage everyone to stay safely out of the way of other cars and first responders. Keep in mind that if someone is severely injured, you should only move them if it’s absolutely necessary. Provide basic first aid, if possible.
Volunteer to Communicate
People involved in an accident may be too shaken to communicate effectively, so take the lead. Describe the incident to the 911 operator and the first responders. Offer to help people involved in the accident make any necessary calls, such as to family members or towing companies. Leave your number with the authorities in case they need to contact you about what you witnessed.
When accidents happen, trust Barnett’s Towing to help you get your car where it needs to go, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible. As the largest family owned towing company in the state, we’ve been serving drivers in Arizona for over 50 years. When you need a tow in Arizona, call (800) 722-02302.
