Traffic Accidents

Legal Requirements
No matter how safely you drive, chances are someday you'll be involved in an accident. Regardless of who is at fault, it's important that you know what to do. If you are involved in an accident, there are several things you are legally required to do:

• First, you must stop at the scene of the accident or as close to the scene as possible without blocking traffic. Only move vehicles from the accident scene if they are a traffic hazard. If this is the case, move them as soon as possible, even before the police arrive.
• Second, give any help you can to someone who is obviously injured. Do not attempt to move an injured person from a wrecked vehicle unless you have the necessary medical training or there is an immediate danger, such as a fire.
• Third, report the accident to the police as quickly as possible, regardless of whether injury or property damage occurred, and regardless of whether the accident occurred on public or private property. The police officer will note all relevant facts and information about the case and file a traffic accident report.
• Fourth, exchange information with other people involved in the accident. This includes the name, address, driver's license number, and license plate numbers of all drivers and the names of injured parties and witnesses. Be sure to exchange insurance policy numbers with other vehicle owners and notify your own insurance company immediately. You should also see a doctor at the first opportunity. You might be injured and not know it.

An Accident with an Unattended Vehicle or Property
If you have had an accident with an unattended vehicle or property, you must make a reasonable effort to find the property owner at the time of the accident. If no one can be located, leave a note that can be easily found at the scene of the accident. Include:

• Your name
• Address
• Driver's license number
• Date and time of the accident
• An estimate of the damages

You should also report the accident to the police.

Serious Accidents
In addition, if you are the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in any personal injury, death, or there are any vehicles involved that require towing due to the accident by law you must report the accident to the police. Failure to file this report may result in summary or misdemeanor charges being filed against you. Accident report forms are available from the Hampton Police Department.

Accident Reports
The Township of Hampton maintains accident reports following any accident reported to the department. Copies can be obtained by visiting the police station. For more information, or to file a traffic accident report, contact the Hampton Police Department, located at:
3101 McCully Road
Allison Park, PA 15101.

At the time of any accident the call for police should be made by calling 911.