What To Do If You’re Involved in a Road Traffic Accident

Accidents are, unfortunately, are a part of driving. However, being prepared and knowing what to do afterwards will mean that you won’t add stress to the already upsetting situation.

Be Prepared

You should keep an accident pack in your car that includes a pen and notebook at the very least. Ideally include a disposable camera in case your phone is damaged. It could also include things like food such as cereal bars, and warm jumpers and a blanket too, should you have to get out and stay out of the cold. It may also be advisable to also have waterproofs in your accident pack.

Stay Calm

You should stop at the scene of the crime to make sure nothing is damaged and no one is harmed. It is an offence if you have caused damaged but failed to stop. Make sure that your engine is off and your hazard lights are on. Don’t admit blame at the scene.

Report It

If anyone is injured then you should call the police immediately, but if they aren’t and you don’t leave your details at the scene, then you must report the incident to a police station as soon as possible. Usually, you cannot report it over the telephone; it must be done in person.

Exchange Details

If there is injury to either party, then you are required by law to produce your insurance certificate at the scene. If this isn’t requested of you at the scene, then you may have to produce it when you report the accident to the police station within 7 days.

Take Notes

Make a note of the date and time of the incident, the vehicle details (registration number, make and model, colour and how many passengers there were), the weather, light conditions and visibility. Take photos of the damage to vehicles, property and injuries to passengers and if not then make a note of it.

Notify Your Insurance Company

You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. Whether you make a claim or not, your insurers need to know, you should give them all the information that you have collated including notes and photographs.

If It Wasn’t Your Fault

If you’ve had an accident that wasn’t your fault but you’re still suffering the effects, then you should think about filing for road accident claims. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on how the injuries you have effected your life.