If a Crash Occurs

If there has been an injury, call emergency services for help. Do not leave the scene of a crash until all matters have been taken care of. Move the vehicle only if its position puts you in danger, or you are instructed to move it by a police officer.

Give only the necessary information to police and other parties involved in the crash.

For emergency towing see Roadside Assistance Program .

Gather the following information:

  • Driver name, address, and telephone number.
  • Driver license number.
  • Owner name, address, and telephone number.
  • Vehicle license plate number.
  • Vehicle make, model, and model year.
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
  • Insurance company and policy number.
  • General description of the damage to the other vehicle.

Choose a reputable repair facility that uses quality replacement parts. See “Collision Parts” earlier in this section.

If the airbag has inflated, see What Will You See after an Airbag Inflates? .

    See also:

    If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
    CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood.Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone ...

    Replacing Airbag System Parts after a Crash
    WARNING! A crash can damage the airbag systems in the vehicle. A damaged airbag system may not work properly and may not protect you and your passenger(s) in a crash, resulting in serious ...

    Windshield Washer
    Pull the windshield wiper lever toward you to spray windshield washer fluid and activate the wipers. See Windshield Wiper/Washer . ...