GPT did a good job here for our class discussion but it's because the Prompt was detailed:
GPT 4 – March 20, 2025 – Car Accident (the following is not legal advice)
PROMPT: Devise scenario where I am in a car accident, someone hit me, and I don't seem injured at the time. What should I do at the scene, who should I talk with and not talk with after the accident, and what other specific things do you recommend I do
Scenario: Car Accident Where You Don’t Seem Injured at the Time
You're driving through an intersection on a green light when another driver runs a red light and crashes into the side of your car. The impact is jarring, but after assessing yourself, you don’t feel any immediate pain or visible injuries. The other driver, clearly shaken, steps out and starts apologizing. Your car is damaged but still operable.
PRINT OUT AND KEEP IN GLOVE COMPARTMENT
Steps to Take at the Scene
- Stay Calm & Ensure Safety
- Turn on your hazard lights.
- If it’s safe, move your car out of traffic to avoid further accidents.
- Call 911 (Perry: call 311 or local police station if not an emergency)
- Request police assistance, even if the accident seems minor. A police report is crucial for insurance claims.
- If the other driver seems intoxicated or aggressive, let the dispatcher know.
- Gather Information
- Exchange details with the other driver:
- Name
- Contact information
- Driver’s license number
- Insurance company and policy number
- License plate and vehicle make/model
- Get contact info for any witnesses.
- Note the location, time, and road conditions.
- Take Photos & Videos
- Capture images of:
- Damage to both vehicles
- License plates
- The surrounding area (traffic signals, signs, skid marks, debris)
- Any visible injuries, even minor ones
- Record a brief video explaining what happened while it’s fresh in your memory.
- Limit Conversation with the Other Driver
- DO NOT admit fault or say, “I’m okay” (you might not feel injuries immediately).
- DO NOT engage in arguments.
- Politely gather information and wait for the police.
- Give a Statement to the Police
- Stick to the facts; avoid speculation.
- Request a copy of the police report or the report number for future reference.
Who to Talk With & Who to Avoid
✅ Talk to:
- Police Officers – Provide honest, factual details.
- Your Insurance Company – Report the accident but avoid admitting fault until investigations are complete.
- Your Doctor – Even if you feel fine, injuries like whiplash or internal trauma may not appear until hours or days later.
🚫 Avoid Discussing Details With:
- The Other Driver’s Insurance – Their adjuster may try to get you to admit fault or downplay your claim. Direct them to your insurer or attorney.
- Social Media – DO NOT post about the accident, as insurers may use your posts against you.
Additional Steps After the Accident
- Seek Medical Attention
- Visit a doctor even if you feel fine—hidden injuries can surface later.
- Keep all medical records and receipts.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
- Provide factual details and police report info.
- Ask about coverage for vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and rental cars.
- Monitor for Delayed Symptoms
- Watch for neck pain, headaches, dizziness, or numbness—these could indicate injuries.
- Consult a Lawyer (If Necessary)
- If the accident was serious, injuries appear later, or the other driver disputes fault, legal advice can help protect your rights.