What must a driver do if they are involved in an accident?

A driver involved in an accident has a responsibility to stop, secure the scene, provide aid if necessary, and notify authorities. This process is crucial for several reasons. First, stopping ensures that the safety of all individuals involved is prioritized, including securing the scene to prevent further accidents. This may involve using hazard lights or flares to alert oncoming traffic to the situation.

Providing aid is important, as some individuals may be injured and in need of immediate help before emergency services arrive. The law also typically mandates notifying authorities, especially in accidents that result in injury, significant property damage, or when the vehicles involved cannot be safely moved. This helps ensure that law enforcement can document the incident and assist with the appropriate response.

The other options do not align with legal and safety obligations. For instance, driving away may be considered a hit-and-run, which can lead to severe legal consequences, while leaving to avoid traffic neglects the responsibilities a driver has to those involved in the accident. Calling a friend may be helpful, but it does not fulfill the legal requirements of stopping and notifying the authorities. Overall, being involved in an accident entails a duty of care and legal responsibilities that must be met to ensure safety and compliance with the law.