The moment you get into an accident in Providence, RI, you need to act responsibly and adhere to the state law. We have a few guidelines and requirements that you need to follow in case you get into an accident.

First

You should never leave the scene of an accident. (Learn about hit and run drivers). You are required to provide essential information following an accident so if you leave the scene, your license might be suspended or your driving privileges could be revoked. Once you have stopped your car, pull up as close to the accident as possible. Consider possible dangers such as a fire. Also, consider the traffic situation. Make sure where you don’t obstruct traffic and do not panic. Take a moment to assess the situation. If you are in a position to, consider helping other pedestrians, passengers or motorists that may have suffered injuries because of the accident. If someone has been seriously injured, take care when attempting to move them. Unless they are in immediate danger such as near a fire or in the way of traffic, it’s best to wait for paramedics to move them. Call 911 to request for medical assistance. You should also call local Providence police to inform them of any fatalities resulting from the accident. If you have been seriously injured, remain calm. If you can, move away from oncoming traffic and call for help. If you can’t move, sit tight and wait for assistance.

Exchange Contact Information.

You are required to exchange certain information with everyone that was involved in the accident. It is also advisable to ask witnesses for their contact information just in case you need them to provide testimony later. Some of the information that you should exchange after a car accident includes:

1. Contact details, address and names
2. Auto insurance information
3. License plate numbers of cars involved in the accident
4. Driver license number

Take as many pictures of the accident scene as possible from different angles. Pictures show the condition of the road, the weather, the extent of the damage and so much more. If you hit a parked vehicle, you should make an effort to find the owner of the car and request for the information mentioned above. If you can’t find them, leave a note with your name, contact details and a description of the accident.

Reporting a DMV in Providence, RI

DMV stands for Department of Motor Vehicles and it’s a state level government agency that administers driver licensing and car registration. There are cases where you are required to report a car accident to Rhode Island DMV. In such a case you will have to complete and submit an accident form within 21 days. In most cases, you will be required to report a DMV if:

1. The accident resulted in death or injury
2. The accident caused damage to property that is more than $1, 000

If you do not report a DMV your license might be suspended or you can be prosecuted. Even when the other driver offers to compensate you for your damages and requests you not to report a DMV, you should still report it. Your driver privileges may be suspended if you did not have liability insurance when the accident happened. If you want to have your driving privileges reinstated, you will have to file proof of future financial responsibility. In order to do this, you will need to SR-22 form, which will protect you against problem drivers by monitoring your insurance. Filling out the form proves your financial responsibility and it shows that your auto insurance liability is in effect. The state of Rhode Island won’t send you a notification so it is up to you and your car insurer to submit the form as well as any renewals needed. If you do not want to fill out the SR-22 form, you can deposit $50, 000 in cash or securities with the Rhode Island State Treasurer. You can also file a real estate bond or a surety bond approved by a court out of record.

Hire A Providence Car Accident Attorney.

Over the years, Rhode Island has enacted laws designed to protect drivers who are victims of car negligence. Our Providence car accident attorneys at Kevin P Landry Law Offices understand these laws and we can help guide you through your options. Contact us at 401-751-0101 to schedule a free initial consultation.