If you get into a car accident in Massachusetts that wasn’t your fault, it doesn’t mean you’re not liable for the actions you take now. After the accident, if you’re injured but able to move around freely, you need to make sure you stay at the scene. Even if the accident wasn’t your fault, if you leave, you could be charged with a hit-and-run.

If you need to help render aid, you will need to do so. Regardless of who is at fault, it’s important to provide medical care if and when possible. If you are injured, wait for the medical team to arrive to help you; do not move and don’t attempt to move anyone else who is injured unless they are in immediate danger.

If you can collect information about witnesses at the scene, they can help prove that you were not at fault for the accident. You’ll want to get their names and phone numbers at the very least. If you can get addresses for them, that is helpful, too. When the police arrive, they should request this information, so if you are unable to record it, it can usually still be obtained from the police at a later time.

The other driver should provide you with his or her name, address and telephone number. His insurance information should be provided to you, and you should take a description of the vehicle. Record the driver’s license number and license plate ID. These are all helpful identifying items that could be useful if the person is unable to be found later.

Source: DMV.org, “Accident Guide in Massachusetts,” accessed July 09, 2015