Accidents and Emergency Situations — Indiana Driver's License Practice Test

This section explains what the law requires of you after a crash and how to handle sudden emergencies behind the wheel. Failure to yield the right of way is the most common factor in Indiana collisions, so much of safe driving is preventing crashes in the first place. When a crash or emergency does happen, knowing the right steps can protect lives and keep you within the law.

If you are in an accident, stop immediately at or as close as possible to the scene without obstructing traffic more than necessary, and remain there. Give your name, address, and vehicle registration number to those involved and show your driver's license. If there is injury or death, provide reasonable assistance as directed and notify law enforcement as soon as possible; if you strike an unattended vehicle or property, try to notify the owner and call law enforcement if you cannot locate them.

Emergencies call for calm, practiced responses. If a collision looks likely, your options may be to stop quickly, turn quickly, or speed up, and it is safer to hit something that gives way, like brush, than something hard. In a tire blowout, hold the wheel firmly, keep going straight, and ease off the gas without braking; if your brakes fail, shift to a lower gear and pump the pedal, then use the parking brake. If your vehicle goes into water, do not try to open a door — remove your seat belt, open a window, get out, and call 911.