If you are involved in an accident that results in a hazmat release, you must:

Federal rules require immediate notification to the National Response Center (NRC) at 1-800-424-8802 when a hazmat incident occurs that involves: a death, serious injury requiring hospitalization, evacuation, or property damage exceeding $50,000; suspected radioactive contamination; specified bio-hazard contamination; or a continuing release that poses a danger. Other incidents require a written report within 30 days. The carrier (not just the driver) must comply, but the driver typically makes the initial call from the scene. Failure to report is itself a violation. The NRC coordinates federal response and notifies state authorities. CHEMTREC (1-800-424-9300) handles chemical-specific technical assistance but is separate from the reporting requirement.