Explains the laws and safety procedures for deciding whether to move your vehicle from the roadway after a minor collision. These are often called 'Steer It and Clear It' or 'Fender Bender' laws, which help prevent further accidents and reduce traffic congestion.
Under what specific conditions should you move your vehicle off the road after a crash?
You should move your vehicle if the collision is minor, there are no apparent serious injuries or fatalities, and the vehicle is still operable.
What is the main purpose of 'Steer It and Clear It' or 'Fender Bender' laws?
These laws are designed to improve safety by preventing secondary collisions and to reduce traffic backups caused by minor accidents blocking travel lanes.
What is a safe location to move your vehicle to after a minor collision?
The shoulder of the road, an emergency lane, a nearby parking lot, or the nearest side street are all good options. The goal is to get completely out of the flow of traffic.
If you decide it's safe to move your vehicle after a minor crash, what should you try to do first?
If you can do so quickly and safely from the side of the road, take photos of the vehicles' original positions and the surrounding scene before moving them.
What are the key reasons NOT to move your vehicle after a collision?
Do not move your vehicle if there is a serious injury or fatality, if fluids are leaking (fuel, oil), if a vehicle is on fire, or if it is not drivable.
What should you do if your car cannot be moved from a lane of traffic?
Turn on your hazard lights, ensure everyone gets out of the vehicle and moves to a safe location (like behind a guardrail, well away from traffic), and call \(911\) for assistance.
If a police officer arrives at the scene, what is your obligation regarding moving your vehicle?
You must follow the instructions of the law enforcement officer. Their commands override general guidelines about moving your vehicle.
What risk do you reduce by moving your vehicle out of a travel lane?
You significantly reduce the risk of a secondary crash, which often can be more severe than the initial collision because other drivers may not see the disabled vehicles in time.
