Depending on where you live, you may have a legal obligation to pull your car to the side of the road if you're able to do so. This helps keep traffic in the area flowing, which prevents major delays and may even help emergency personnel get to you sooner. However, there are times when pulling your car to the side of the road isn't possible or advisable. For example, if your car is mangled and cannot be moved, you have no choice but to leave it where it is. If it can be moved and one of the following is true, you should also leave it in place until help arrives.  

If There Is an Injured Party

Minor accidents don't require police involvement. You simply have to exchange personal information with the other driver and be on your way. If possible, you can drive away. If not, you can call for a tow. However, if there are injuries, you should not leave the scene regardless of how badly damaged your car is. Police and emergency personnel are required to respond to accidents resulting in injury, and they will want to investigate the scene. What's more, you can injure someone further if you move them. If someone is injured, everything, including the vehicles, should stay put. 

If Criminal Activity Is Suspected

If you suspect that the accident was caused by criminal activity, such as reckless driving or driving under the influence, you should not move the vehicles. Investigations are required in these circumstances. Moving vehicles can destroy evidence vital to the investigation. If you allow the other driver to leave the scene, it might also be impossible to determine whether or not they were intoxicated when the accident happened. 

If Conditions Are Dangerous

If conditions are too dangerous to move your car to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot safely, don't do it. Inclement weather, heavy traffic and certain types of damage to your car can all contribute to dangerous conditions. The last thing you need to do is try to push a damaged car off the side of the road in heavy traffic. If you're not sure if it's too dangerous, consult with a tow company like Michael's Towing & Recovery and ask them what you should do while you're waiting for them to arrive. 

As you can see, there are several times when you should not move your car to the side of the road while waiting for emergency personnel or a tow truck. Always use common sense. If you've had a minor accident or breakdown and can move your vehicle, do so. If you can't, leave it in place.