What should I do if I am in an automobile accident?
Our 1st concern is your health and safety. If you are involved in an accident, determine if anyone is hurt. If anyone is injured, call 911 and request an ambulance. Render aid to the injured if you are qualified to do so. Also, if anyone is injured, or the damage in the collision is greater than $1,000, then a police report is mandatory. If no one is hurt, or the damage is not greater than $1,000, then the two parties may settle any claims among themselves without legally being required to file a report with the police. If you decide to go this route, be absolutely sure that you do not need a police report, as the Durham Police Department does not investigate wrecks on a delayed basis.

If your vehicle is in the middle of a busy travel lane, and the damage is minimal and there are no injuries, it is best to move both vehicles out of the travel lanes. Although it is easier for the investigating officer if the vehicles are not moved prior to his arrival, there is a risk of further damage and injury when you remain in traffic.?

Show All Answers

1. How do I hire an off-duty officer for my business or special event?
2. How large is the Durham Police Department?
3. How do I become a Durham Police officer?
4. What should I do if I am in an automobile accident?
5. What is the procedure for reporting suspicious activity in my neighborhood without calling the police?
6. How do I get it back property of mine that was turned into the police department?
7. How do I get crime statistics for a neighborhood?
8. How do I obtain a special events permit?
9. Should I install a burglar alarm on my home?
10. How can I obtain a restraining order?
11. How can I get fingerprinted for a job application?
12. How do I get a permit to purchase a pistol? How do I get a concealed weapons permit?
13. How do I get a copy of a police report or an accident report?
14. Do you have Neighborhood Watch programs?
15. I have a warrant on me. How do I get it cleared up?
16. I have a criminal summons on me. How do I get it cleared up?
17. How do I take out a warrant on someone?
18. What do I do if my vehicle has been towed? Who do I contact if I have a towing complaint or issue?
19. How do I apply for an ABC permit?
20. How can I find bond information after you have arrested someone?
21. What can I do about stray dogs and cats and barking dogs?
22. What is Partners Against Crime (PAC)?
23. What is CrimeStoppers and how does it work?
24. Can the police open my car if I have locked my keys inside?
25. Can I make a police report at any time of day and do I need to make an appointment?
26. Can I make a police report over the telephone or does a police officer have to come to my house?
27. Is there a waiting period before I can report someone missing?
28. Someone has abandoned a junk car on the street near my house. Can the police get rid of it?
29. Where can I learn more about the Citizens Police Academy?
30. How do I find out more about National Night Out?
31. I do not have any transportation and have to get somewhere. Can a police officer give me a ride?
32. I have left my spouse and am living elsewhere but I need to get my clothing and other items. Can the police help me?
33. I need to get a message to someone that does not have a telephone. Can the Police Department go to the person's home and deliver the message?
34. My family and I are going on vacation. Can the police keep an eye on our home while we are gone?
35. We have a problem with speeders in our neighborhood. What can I do about it?
36. What happens to unclaimed property?
37. I have been charged with a traffic infraction or a crime. Can I reschedule the court appearance date?