Not all car accidents in Maryland require police involvement. There are circumstances in which you must call the police and some in which you and the involved parties can handle the matter without filing a report.
Here is what to know about these two scenarios:
When you must call the police
You must call the police after a car accident when:
- Someone is injured
- Public property is damaged
- Your vehicle cannot be safely moved
- Any driver involved in the accident appears to be intoxicated
- Any driver involved lacks a driver’s license or refuses to exchange information with you
- Any driver involved tries to leave the accident scene without providing you with proper information
When waiting for the police to arrive, take photos and gather witness information and statements if possible.
When there is no need to call the police
If you are involved in an accident that does not result in an injury or damage to public property and your car can safely move, you don’t need to call the police to the scene although it can still be helpful to do so.
Safely move it off the road to prevent traffic and keep other road users safe. And then request witnesses to provide you with their names, contact information and statements.
You also need to exchange information with the other driver (personal details, vehicle information and insurance information). If, at this point, the other driver refuses to cooperate or you realize they don’t have their license, you should call the police.
This is also a suitable time to look out for signs of intoxication. If the driver is showing alarming signs, such as slurred speech, a strong smell of alcohol, stumbling and bloodshot or watery eyes, they may be intoxicated. Hence, you need to call the police.
If you are involved in an accident, obtain as much information as possible to understand how to fight for your rights as a road user.