DO I HAVE A DUTY TO STOP AFTER A CAR ACCIDENT IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO?

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​If you didn't know you had to...YES YOU DO. 

When a car accident occurs the driver of the vehicle has a duty to stop, give aid and make a report of the accident. 

According to Section 79 of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act:

79. (1) Where, owing to the presence of a vehicle on a road, an accident occurs whereby injury or damage is caused to any person, animal or property, the driver of such vehicle shall immediately stop, and--

(a) if any person has been injured in the accident, the driver shall render such person aid, and if the person wishes to be taken to hospital or to a doctor, or is unconscious, convey or cause to be conveyed the injured person without delay to the nearest hospital or to a doctor;

(b) if requested by the injured person or by the owner of the damaged property or some person on such owner’s behalf, the driver shall give his name and address and particulars of his driving permit and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle;

(c) unless a report is made by the driver at the time and place of the accident to a member of the Police Service, the person riding in, driving or in charge of the vehicle shall proceed with all proper despatch to the nearest Police Station or police constable in uniform and shall report the accident, and shall give his name and address and the name and address of the owner of the vehicle and the names of any persons in the vehicle at the time of the accident.

(2) Any person who contravenes this section is guilty of an offence.

Important Notice: This post does not constitute or provide legal advice. Always consult with a suitably qualified attorney-at-law on any legal problem or issue.

Law For All is managed by the Aurora Chambers Legal Practice.

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