When you drive in downtown Boston 8-13 hours a day, your risk of having an accident is much higher than for your average driver. So even if you are the next Ricky Bobby, eventually you will hit something, or something will hit you. So what should you do in such a situation? First and foremost get rid of the body

About a week ago I was parked at the trolley stop in front of the State House (which is not the Shaw Memorial kids, but we’ll save that issue for another time). I had my hazard lights flashing as I read the morning news while waiting to start the day.  By news I mean Facebook. Just as I finished reading the heart-warming story about Ashley’s boyfriend being released from prison, Crash! Bam! I was hit by a school bus.

I “liked” the status, then met the other driver outside with little to no profanity. I greeted the bus full of horrified children with a smile and wave. Next, we exchanged paperwork. I took pictures of both vehicles, along with a picture of the other driver’s license, registration, and medical card. I called my dispatcher and was ready to head back to the barn.

Just then a Boston police officer showed up. We gave her all the information she needed to write a report. Then she gave me this great advice.

IF YOU ARE EVER IN AN ACCIDENT PROTECT YOURSELF!

1) Always call or wave down a police officer to do a report. Sometimes stories change after you leave the scene. Then it becomes your word against theirs and quite often people develop “trauma” or “head injury” a week later, when they realize the possible capital gain.

2) If you have passengers make sure they are o.k., and do not let them leave until the police officer arrives to confirm that.

3) Check all of the other driver’s credentials, and make sure they match up: i.e., plate matches registration, med card up to date, hackney badge if required (check picture especially on cab drivers).

4) Notify your dispatcher.

5) Get the police report number from the officer.

6) Take pictures of everything, including the damage to both vehicles.

7)  If necessary get names and phone numbers of witnesses.

Also don’t argue with the driver. Stay calm, follow procedure, and carry on.

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS ALL TROLLEY DRIVERS SHOULD CARRY:

Your Dispatcher/ Main office
BOSTON POLICE (617) 343-4240
CAMBRIDGE POLICE (617) 349-3300
SUICIDE HOTLINE (877) 870-HOPE (8336)

-Barbie Gillis is a Charlestown native and has been a tour guide at Super Trolley Tours for 2 years.