Back to all

What to Do in Case of an Accident in Perryville

July 31, 2022

Screeching tires, crunching metal – it's an accident! If you've ever been in a car accident in Perryville, 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 Perryville drivers should do in case of an accident:

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

Your jurisdiction may require that you try to help someone who is injured by calling for help or performing first aid if you are able. Warn other motorists by putting out flares, using your flashers or lifting your hood. Call Perryville emergency services as soon as possible. Tell the operator if medical or fire help is needed.

You should 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 Perryville police officer. Sometimes we may feel at fault, but in the eyes of the law, the other guy may be responsible.

Truthfully give the officer the facts: such as, "I was going 30 miles an 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 ID 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 Missouri auto insurance companies don't record license plate numbers, so the VIN is the best way to track a vehicle in Missouri.

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 insurance company. Call or see a physician if you think you may have been injured. For vehicle repairs, call Charlie's Fast Lube Perryville at 575-517-0022.

Contact Charlie's Fast Lube Perryville to learn more about what to do in case of an auto accident.
You can find us at:

701 S. Perryville Ave
Perryville, Missouri 63775
575-517-0022
http://www.charliesfastlubeperryville.com

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Charlie's Fast Lube Perryville

Coolant Service at Charlie's Fast Lube Perryville

March 24, 2024

Perryville residents' vehicles have to operate in a wide range of Missouri temperatures which requires the engine coolant to be able to perform 'no matter what.' Think for a moment about the environment where the coolant does its thing. Very hot, high pressure, corrosive...And all the while, it ... More

Protecting Your Vehicle from Theft in Perryville, Missouri

March 17, 2024

Every car in Perryville, Missouri, is at risk for theft. So it's up to us to make our cars a less appealing target and more of a challenge hopefully sending potential thieves to look elsewhere.The National Insurance Crime Bureau recommends a layered approach to protecting vehicles: Common sense... More

Timing Belt

March 10, 2024

Ever heard the sad tale of a staggeringly steep repair bill from a broken timing belt? Bad news. Let's take a lesson from their woes and remember to think about our timing belt.First, let's review what a timing belt does. The top part of the engine over the cylinders is called the cylinder head.... More