No one wants to be in a motor vehicle accident, but should you find yourself in that situation keep these Dos and Don'ts in mind to protect you and your passenger both physically and legally.

DOs

DO check the medical condition of you, your passenger/s and others involved in the collision.

DO call the police and medical personnel if necessary.

DO cooperate with law enforcement and medical personnel.

DO obtain the license plate numbers of all other vehicles involved in car accidents and the drivers' names, addresses, telephone numbers, and insurance information.

DO write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all witnesses to the accident.

DO contact your insurance company.

DO take photographs of all of the following as soon as possible after the accident:
• The scene of the accident, from all angles.
• The surrounding area.
• The product or animal that caused your injuries.
• Your injuries.
• Any property damage.

DO contact your attorney.

DON'Ts

DON'T move your vehicle after an automobile accident unless necessary for safety or required by law.

DON'T put yourself further into harm's way by standing or waiting in an area of traffic.

DON'T leave the scene of an accident until law enforcement gives permission to do so.

DON'T throw away any potential evidence in the case, such as defective products, or torn or blood-stained clothing.

DON'T engage in discussions as to fault with anyone, and make sure you don't apologize for anything-it can be considered evidence that you were legally at fault.

DON'T agree to settlement terms without contacting your attorney.

(Dos and Donts provided by: Hinkle, Jachimowicz, Pointer & Emanuel

http://injury.findlaw.com/personal-injury/personal-injury-law/dos-and-donts-of-personal-injury.html).

If you don't own a digital camera keep a disposable one in your car, as well as a first aid kit, and orange traffic triangles to alert passing vehicles of the accident. Keep index cards handy to write down names, license plate numbers, address, and phone numbers of those involved in the accident. You may not be able to avoid an accident, but keeping this list handy could potentially keep you from further harm and legal issues.