Back to all

What to Do In Case of an Accident

July 7, 2019

If you've ever been in a vehicle accident around Clinton Township, Michigan, even a minor one, you know how upsetting it can be. It's hard to think straight and know what to do.

Let's review what you should do in case of an accident in Clinton Township, Michigan:

When an accident occurs, you should always stop. Leaving the scene of an accident is considered a crime in Michigan, even if it's not your fault. And hit-and-run penalties are fairly severe, possibly resulting in steep fines, loss of your driver's license or even jail time in our local Clinton Township lockup.

Most places, including Michigan, require that you try to help someone who is injured by calling for help or performing first aid if you are able.

Warn other Clinton Township motorists by putting out flares, using your flashers or lifting your hood.

Call 911 as soon as possible. Tell the operator if medical or fire help is needed.

Always file a police report. It's tempting to skip this if everything seems to be ok. But without a police report, the other guy can say whatever he wants about the accident later, and you won't have an objective report to help defend yourself.

Discuss the accident only with the police. Emotions are strong after an accident and we naturally want to talk about it – don't. Never admit fault or guilt to anyone, including the police officer. Sometimes we may feel at fault, but in the eyes of Michigan law, the other guy may be responsible.

Truthfully give the officer the facts: such as, "I was going 35 miles per hour," or, "I was going 55 kilometers per hour," not, "I wasn't speeding." Remember, anything you say to the officer or anyone else can be used against you.

Also get the officer's name and badge number and ask where you can get a copy of the accident report.

Get the facts on the driver and owner of the other vehicle:

  • Name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Date of birth
  • Driver's license number and expiration
  • Insurance information

Also take down a description of the other vehicle, license plate and vehicle identification number (VIN). Most insurance companies don't record license plate numbers, so the VIN is the best way to track the vehicle.

Ask witnesses, including passengers, to wait for the police. If they can't wait, ask for contact information and request that they write a brief description of what they saw. If someone refuses to leave their name, write down their license plate number so the police can track them down later if necessary.

Always call your insurance agent or your Michigan auto insurance company's 800 number.

Call or see your local Clinton Township physician if you think you may have been injured.

We here at Tuffy Clinton Township hope that you never have to use this information and wish you happy travels.

Tuffy Clinton Township
19535 15 Mile Rd
Clinton Township, Michigan 48035
586-792-6660
http://www.tuffyclintontownship.com

More articles from Tuffy Clinton Township

Save Fuel by Watching Your Weight

April 14, 2024

Most Clinton Township drivers are all talking right now. Better gas mileage. Fewer emissions. MI folks want to save the environment and our pocketbooks.And we Clinton Township drivers all know or should know that preventive maintenance will help maintain maximum fuel efficiency. But is there so... More

How to Radiate Cool (Radiator Care)

April 7, 2024

There's nothing that radiates cool like a vehicle radiator that's helping to keep your engine running at the proper temperature. You don't have to baby it, but you can't simply ignore it, either. Let's take a quick dive under the hood to let you know what the radiator is doing. It takes the he... More

Transmission Service at Tuffy Clinton Township in Clinton Township

March 31, 2024

Let's talk about transmission service. It can be easy for Clinton Township drivers to forget about getting their transmission serviced because it doesn't need it very often. It's easier for people in MI to remember to change the engine oil - you know, every 3,000 miles or 5,000 kilometers. But pr... More