Everyone thinks it's not going to happen to them, but every day across the state of Colorado it's happening to somebody.

Accidents happen. They are unexpected and unwanted occurrences in our lives. However, just because they happen unexpectedly doesn't mean we can't be prepared for them.

Colorado State Patrol Trooper Gary Cutler recently shared some good advice on what you should do if you are ever in an accident. Wintertime is a time when accidents are on the rise because of slick roads and so the chances of someone being in an accident are higher. Giving some thought to possible unforeseen and undesirable circumstances before they happen could be a lifesaver for you, and can also help you make better decisions in the heat of the moment.

Here are some highlights from Trooper Cutler's advice if you are ever in an accident.

1. Try to stay calm and check on the condition of your passengers.
2. Before you get out of your vehicle, take a moment to look around and make sure it's safe to get out.
3. Check on the status of occupants in the other vehicle
3. If there are no injuries and no impairment and your vehicle is in a bad spot like a hill or a blind curve, if the car is drivable, move it to a safe location such as a shoulder, off-ramp, or parking lot.
4. Call law enforcement and be ready to give them your location such as a mile marker, nearby road, closest town, and the direction you are traveling.
5. Tell the dispatcher how many vehicles are involved and if they are blocking a road. The dispatcher will also want to know about possible injuries, and if power lines are down.

This isn't a comprehensive list of things to do after an accident, but it's a good place to start and some good thoughts to have stashed away in the back of your mind. Hopefully, you'll never have to use this advice, but it's good to have it just in case.

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