Unfortunately, automobile collisions do happen! Knowing what to do after the crash can help make an accident a little less traumatic and relieve at least some of your headaches!

There are four general categories of mandatory action in the aftermath of an accident. This article looks at the first two areas of after-the-accident "must do" requirements.

• If you are involved in an accident you must stop! Leaving the scene of an accident can result in a traffic violation or criminal charges.
• Move your vehicle off the road as soon as possible. Be sure to turn off the ignition and check for gasoline and oil spills.
• Check for injuries. If anyone is injured or if there is vehicle damage, call the police and get medical assistance immediately. In counties with "911", dial 911. In other areas, dial "O" for an operator. Be sure you have exact information to give, such as specific location and if ambulance and fire equipment are needed.
• If you're on the Thruway, police patrol every area at least every five minutes. Putting up your hood will alert them that you need help.
• On the Northway, HELP vehicles patrol Exits 1 through 9.  There are emergency solar-powered radio transmitters located every two miles north of Glens Falls. They look like telephones but automatically dial the State Police for assistance.

If you are hesitant to help an accident victim for fear of liability, you should know that New York State has a universal Good Samaritan law. Those rendering emergency help to injured victims are not liable for damages that may occur as a result of that help.

• Don't move an injured person unless the car is on fire or if a life-threatening situation exists.
• Check to see if the injured person is breathing. If not, begin CPR if you are certified. If you are not certified, find someone who is.
• To help stop bleeding, put pressure directly on the wound with your hand or a clean piece of clothing.
• Cover any injured people with blankets or coats to keep them warm as well as prevent them from possibly going into shock before medical assistance arrives.

Hopefully, you'll never need to utilize the information in this article. But save this article so that you'll have all the information could need in the event of an accident!

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