Monday morning, at approximately 11:15, southbound I-35W, a tanker, tractor, and three other vehicles were involved in a catastrophic accident that left one person dead and four others in critical condition. The crash shut down the Heritage Trace Parkway for several hours in order for authorities to investigate the accident and clear debris. When these types of accidents happen, there is always fault. Negligence is an all too common killer on our roads. It is crucial that you know what to do if you are involved in a car accident on the freeway.
What to Do If You Are Involved in a Car Accident
Being involved in a horrific crash is every person’s nightmare. Especially when it is located on a busy highway, like the I-35. The important thing that you remember is to remain calm. Then take the following steps to remain safe:
- Pull to the side of the road and immediately put your hazard lights on.
- Stay in your vehicle unless you see or smell smoke.
- If you can, call 911 and give your location.
- If it is dark and you are not injured, place some flares out beside your car to warn drivers of the accident.
- Wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
If you follow these steps, you are at a much less risk of being hit by other drivers or being injured by debris that may get flung into the air by cars that are driving by.
After Your Car Accident
After police has secured the scene, gather contact information from any witnesses that saw the accident. Get contact information for all vehicles involved in the accident. Take pictures with your cell phone and then seek medical care to ensure you are not injured. As soon as you can, call an experienced car accident attorney to help you with your claim.
For more information about car accidents and what you should do, call Todd R. Durham today. Call (214) 222-4000 for your free initial consultation.
*Image source: NBC5
