If You Have an Accident

Even the best drivers can get in traffic accidents. Knowing accident rules for Connecticut drivers will help you think clearly―and follow the law―if you are in a crash.

Common reasons for accidents are:

• Driving at an unsafe speed.

• Driving on the wrong side of the road.

• Running stop signs and traffic signals.

• Making improper turns.

State law requires you to pull over and stop when you are involved in an accident. If you don't stop, you face the risk of being charged with a "hit and run" accident.

Make sure your vehicle is off the road, if you can operate it. Police need to be notified right away when there is injury, death, or property damage. There is no threshold in estimated property damage for reporting an accident.

Accidents with Injury

Your response after an accident with injuries can help save lives and speed rescue personnel to the scene.

• Call 911. If you don't have a cell phone, flag down another motorist and request help. Make sure police and other emergency workers have been notified.

• Don't try to move an injured person unless there is a vehicle fire or other immediate risk.

• Covering an injured person with a blanket can help prevent shock.

Reporting an Accident

Collecting information after an accident will be helpful to police, your insurance company when you make a claim, and even your attorney.

• Write down the names and addresses of everyone involved.

• Get insurance information, license plate numbers and the make, model and year of vehicles.

• Write down any damage you observe to vehicles.

• Cooperate with police in answering questions and providing information.

• If your car hits a parked vehicle, try to find the owner. Leave a note on the driver's windshield if the owner is not around. Include your contact information and the date and time the accident occurred.

Providing Information to Police

You must show the following documents to police when you are involved in accident:

• Driver's license

• Registration card

• Connecticut insurance card

• Current address

You will be able to get a copy of the official accident report prepared by the officer at the scene with the police department where the accident occurred. Accident reporting is no longer under the jurisdiction of the Connecticut DMV.