A car accident can happen in seconds, and when it does, it can leave you feeling shaken and unsure what to do next.
Whether it’s a minor bump in traffic or something more serious, knowing the right steps to take is key to everyone’s safety.
It can also help you to report the incident and make any necessary claims on your car insurance.
Here are some of the things you should do if you’re ever involved in a road traffic accident in the UK.
- Immediate steps at the scene
Your priority is the safety of you and others. You also need to meet your legal obligations.
As soon as it’s safe to do so, stop your vehicle. Not doing so is an offence.
Switch off the engine and turn on your hazard lights to warn other road users.
Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
If anyone is hurt or in danger, call 999 immediately for an ambulance and police assistance.
You need to exchange details with anyone involved in the crash.
This includes names, addresses, vehicle registrations and insurance information.
It’s also useful to note the vehicle owner’s name if it isn’t the driver.
- Reporting the accident
In minor accidents, you won’t need to formally report the crash to the police if everyone exchanged details at the scene, no one was hurt and no driving offences were committed.
However, report the accident to the police if:
- You couldn’t exchange details with the other driver(s)
- Anyone is injured or in danger
- You suspect a driving offence
- There’s a danger on the road
If you didn’t exchange details, you can call the non-emergency number 101.
- Gathering evidence and acting promptly
Taking good notes and gathering evidence at the scene may help to support reports and claims.
If possible and it’s safe to do so, you can use your phone to photograph things like:
- Damage to vehicles involved
- The overall scene from different angles
- Road signs, junctions and markings
- Weather, lighting and road conditions
Also write down the time, date and location of the accident and get contact details for any witnesses who saw what happened.
- Reporting the accident and making a claim
After the incident, you should inform the police (if required) and get any report references.
Then get in touch with your car insurance provider as soon as you can.
If you or passengers have been injured, you may also consider making a personal injury claim.
In the UK, you generally have three years to start a compensation claim for injuries.
Being involved in a crash can be overwhelming, but staying as calm as possible ensures you take the right steps when it counts.
If you ever find yourself unsure about your rights or what to do, seek professional advice.
