After a car accident, your first instinct might be to get out of your vehicle as fast as possible, check out the damage, or make sure other drivers involved are ok. That's natural, but it's more important to first pause and assess your surroundings for hidden hazards, especially the interior of your vehicle.
1. Door, Window, and Under the Wheel
You might not yet know how extensive the damage is to your vehicle. You might even feel dizzy or confused. Especially in those cases, don't jolt out of the vehicle before looking around. The accident may have caused hazardous objects to become exposed under the wheel around your legs. Windows around you might be broken or cracked. Wires may be sticking out. So you need to move slowly while exiting as to not cut yourself or cause any other kind of injury. And check for broken glass or debris when stepping out of the car.
2. Leaks
Once you're out of your vehicle, look around. You might notice leaking fuel or other fluids from your or other vehicles involved. Even a small puddle of gas or oil can become a fire hazard, especially if there are sparks from damaged electrical systems or heat from the engine. Carefully look under the vehicles for any signs of leakage, and if you detect a strong smell of gas, move away from the vehicles and warn others to keep their distance.
3. Oncoming Traffic
You also might not immediately think to look for oncoming traffic. Accidents often happen in high-traffic areas, and drivers approaching the scene may not notice the stopped vehicles or debris in the road. If they're working, turn on your hazard lights as soon as possible. If it's safe to get out of the car, and if you have reflective triangles or flares in the trunk, use them while also avoiding standing too close to moving traffic or between vehicles. You could cause another accident.
4. Approaching Other Vehicles
Finally, be very cautious when approaching the other car or checking on passengers. Unstable vehicles might shift unexpectedly, especially if they are on a slope or you notice significant damage. Keep a safe distance from vehicles that look like they're going to tip or collapse.
If you have been injured in a car accident, contact Wilkes & Mee today. Our Jacksonville car accident attorneys will help you through every step of the process, from finding medical help to negotiating with the insurance company.