By JAMES WAGNER JR.

Even the most careful driver can be involved in an automobile accident.

Knowledge of what to do after an accident may help make the experience less frightening and decrease the chance of complications later.

Remember these helpful tips:
1. Do not run. This may seem like obvious advice, but very often, it is a first impulse that a panicked individual follows. It is against the law to leave the scene of an accident.
2. If there are injuries life and health are more important than vehicles. First, attend anyone not walking or talking. Apply pressure to any bleeding injuries. It is recommended to wait for trained personnel to move any injured party, if at all possible.
3. Call the police. Advise the police of the circumstances.
4. Exchange information. Get the name, address, and driver’s license number of the other driver. Give your information to the other driver. Also, record the license plate number, insurance company, and policy number of the other vehicle(s). If there are other occupants, list their names as well.
5. Look for witnesses. If possible, get names and addresses of anyone who saw the accident. This could be important in preventing disagreement on what happened.
6. Write down what happened. Details are easily forgotten. Document what happened as soon as possible.
7. Notify your insurance agent or insurer as soon as possible. Have the information you have collected available.
8. Limit your statements. You should give your statements to the police and your insurance company representative only. Do not sign any documents except as required by the police or your insurer.
9. Do not fall prey to anyone offering legal assistance. Be leery of “eager witnesses” that rush to you with the names of doctors and lawyers who can help you “cash in.” Dishonesty and abuse of our system results in the crooks making a killing and higher insurance rates for the rest of us.

JAMES WAGNER JR. is a State Farm insurance agent with an office in LaPlace.