What to Do After A Road Accident

If you’ve been unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident on the road, it’s important to know what to do immediately after the event and then the action to take in the following days.

Even if it’s a minor accident, you must stop. It’s illegal not to so ensure you turn off your engine and put your hazard lights on.

If there have been any injuries sustained, call 999 if you are able to or ask a witness if you have injuries. If you or another vehicle are blocking the road, the police must be called.

You will need to give your name and address to the others involved and avoid saying you are sorry or admitting blame in case it reaches court at a later date. You will also need to stop if you’ve hit a stationary vehicle, even if the damage is minor. Leave your details attached if the owner is not present. Accidents must be reported to the police within 24 hours if they have not attended the scene. Non-reporting could lead to a fine, points or even disqualification.

Collect the names, address and contact numbers of all those who have been involved and ask for insurance details. Be prepared to share yours with those at the scene and look to establish if the people you are talking to are the registered owners of the vehicles. If they are not, you will need to find out who is for the purposes of the insurance claim and also any police investigation. Take details of vehicle registration plates, the time of the accident and weather conditions. Take photos at the scene if possible or draw a sketch of the layout of the road and the position of all involved as soon as you can as memories can quickly fade. Call 999 if someone leaves the scene of the accident without stopping.

Bicycle accident claims can be made if you have suffered any kind of injury and a specialist lawyer can advise you as to whether they feel you could be entitled to compensation.

A road accident is a frightening experience so as well as the legal requirements after the incident has taken place, the most important person is you. It’s important to ensure that you look after your wellbeing in the days and weeks after the accident and to regain your confidence to take to the roads again as soon as you are able.