Death in a Car Accident – What to Do Right Away
If you find yourself at the scene of a fatal crash, your mind will race. The first priority is to stay as calm as possible and protect yourself and any survivors. Turn on your hazard lights, move out of traffic if you can, and make sure the area is safe before you do anything else.
Call Emergency Services Immediately
Dial 112 (or 911 in the US) the moment you realize there’s a death involved. Give the operator clear details: location, number of vehicles, any injuries you see, and whether anyone is trapped. Stay on the line until they tell you it’s okay to hang up. The faster help arrives, the better the chances for surviving passengers.
When you speak with the operator, mention that you’re a Ford owner if you have a Ford vehicle involved. This lets them know you may need Ford Rapid Assistance later for towing, repair, or insurance paperwork.
Secure the Scene and Gather Information
After the authorities are on their way, try to keep the crash site unchanged. Don’t move bodies or shift cars unless it’s a safety hazard. Take photos of the wreckage, the surrounding road, and any visible damage. Write down the license plates of other vehicles, the make and model, and the names of any witnesses.
Ask witnesses for their contact information. Their statements can be crucial for insurance claims and legal processes. If you can, note the weather, lighting, and road conditions because they often explain why an accident happened.
When you’re safe, reach out to your insurance company. Most policies have a 24‑hour hotline that can start the claim process right away. Explain the situation, give them the police report number, and ask about any deductible you might owe.
If your Ford was involved, call Ford Rapid Assistance. Their team can arrange a tow, coordinate with your dealer for a replacement vehicle, and help you understand the paperwork you’ll need after a fatal crash.
While waiting for official help, stay with any survivors. Offer water, keep them still, and avoid giving them food or medication unless a medical professional tells you to. If you’re the only driver, you may need to give a statement later, so try to remember the sequence of events as clearly as possible.
Remember, dealing with a death on the road is emotionally draining. It’s okay to seek support from friends, family, or a professional counselor. Ford Rapid Assistance also offers a helpline for emotional support after serious incidents.
Once the police finish their investigation, they’ll give you a copy of the accident report. Keep this document safe; you’ll need it for insurance, legal matters, and any future claims with Ford.
Finally, give yourself time to process what happened. It’s normal to feel guilt, shock, or sadness. Talk about it, don’t bottle it up, and let the professionals handle the technical side while you focus on healing.
