Back to all

What to Do In Case of an Accident

September 20, 2020

If you've ever been in a vehicle accident around Poplar Bluff, Missouri, 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 Poplar Bluff, Missouri:

When an accident occurs, you should always stop. Leaving the scene of an accident is considered a crime in Missouri, 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 Poplar Bluff lockup.

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

Warn other Poplar Bluff 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 Missouri 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 Missouri auto insurance company's 800 number.

Call or see your local Poplar Bluff physician if you think you may have been injured.

We here at Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff hope that you never have to use this information and wish you happy travels.

Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff
2020 N. Westwood Blvd
Poplar Bluff, Missouri 63901
573-686-5585
http://www.charliesfastlubepoplarbluff.com

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Poplar Bluff

Clean Fuel Equals Clean Performance for Poplar Bluff Drivers

March 24, 2024

Hello, Poplar Bluff residents. Let's talk fuel filters. Fuel filters clean the dirt, dust and debris out of your fuel. Both gasoline and diesel-powered engines have them. The fuel filter is located in the fuel line between the fuel tank and the engine.Poplar Bluff auto owners don't need to filter... More

Beginning to See the Light (Check Engine Light Diagnostics)

March 17, 2024

It's a light many drivers fear they'll see turn on at the most inopportune time. It's the one on the dash that says "Check Engine," "Service Engine Soon," or it may be simply an engine-shaped light. Your first instinct may be to pull off to the side of the road and turn off the engine. The truth... More

Time for a Brake (Brake Pad Replacement)

March 10, 2024

Stop! It's one of those things your vehicle has to do consistently and reliably. That's why brake maintenance is vitally important, worthwhile for you to make sure stays up to date. A brake system has many components. If your vehicle has disc brakes, they have pads that make contact with the rot... More