Traffic Collisions
With the high volume of vehicles traveling through the city each day, traffic collisions often occur.
Most collisions that occur are non-injury, but many motorists do not know what to do if they are involved in a traffic collision.
The safety of both parties should always come first. Always check to see if anyone is injured. If so, call 9-1-1. Don’t attempt to move an injured person unless there is an immediate danger.
If there are no injuries, vehicles should be moved to the side of the road and be sure to turn on hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Any collision that involves injuries, death, or damage greater than $1,000.00 requires parties to complete a DMV SR-1 form.
Here are some other tips to remember:
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Non-Injury Collisions – All that is required by law is that involved parties exchange information: driver’s license, insurance, and vehicle information. Be sure you also document the date, time, and location of the collision. If the other party is uncooperative, then call the police.
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Photos – Photograph any vehicle damage and location of the collision.
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Hit-and-Run Collisions – If the other vehicle is fleeing, try to obtain the license plate, description of vehicle and driver, and call the police. Do not attempt to chase the vehicle.
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Onboard Videos – Most new vehicles have onboard video cameras, or aftermarket cameras can be purchased. After any accident, review and download the video files.
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Call Your Insurance Company – Contact your insurance company and notify them of your involvement in a collision. Insurance companies will handle non-injury collisions. If a police report was taken, provide the report number to them.
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What if the Accident Involves City Property – Call the police on any accident involving City Property (city signs, light poles, etc.). Be cautious of any damage to light poles as electricity may still be active.
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Common Causes of Accidents – Distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield on left turns.
The Crime Prevention Unit offers these FREE services:
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Engravers to mark your property “Community Opportunity for Property Security (COPS) Program.”
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Home Inspection Surveys.
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Email alerts of crime bulletins and weekly crime summary.
If you would like to start a Neighborhood Watch Group or receive future copies of this newsletter, please contact the Crime Prevention Unit.
Burglaries to Homes Under Construction
We continue to have residential burglaries occur while the victim’s home was under construction or remodel.
Often the only security protecting the home is a chain link fence.
Each year it is estimated that over $1 billion worth of construction tools and materials are stolen from construction sites. Besides the monetary costs, these burglaries also affect the victims as they delay the job completion time.
Burglars target building materials like wood, tile, and copper wiring, as well as tools left by contractors. When the house is near completion, burglars will target appliances, light, and plumbing fixtures.
Securing a house under remodel can be difficult, depending on the stage of construction. Until windows and doors can secure the house, a good security fence should always be used. Temporary security cameras can also be installed. Post signs at the front indicating that surveillance cameras are in use. At night, be sure to have good lighting.
Have neighbors help keep an eye on your residence during construction. Burglars will often come at night, so know the city construction times:
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Monday–Friday: 8 AM to 7 PM
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Saturday: 9 AM to 7 PM
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Sunday and City Recognized Holidays: 10 AM to 6 PM
Be cautious if you see any worker during prohibited hours. They may be thieves posing as a worker.
