Knowing what to do in the event of a vehicular collision can be essential. After you’ve suffered an accident, time might be of the essence – and you may be called upon to make quick decisions in a stressful, unpredictable environment. Knowing what to do ahead of time can provide the clarity you need to be decisive.
Stay safe, check for injuries and secure the scene
To begin with, you’ll need to ensure that everyone is safe, and that the likelihood of another crash is minimised. A large number of collisions occur at busy intersections. For example, attempting to treat injuries in the middle of such an environment, without controlling or directing the traffic around you, can be disastrous.
If any injuries have been suffered, then you’ll want to call the emergency services. The police will be able to secure the area, while ambulances will be able to treat injuries.
Exchange details and gather essential evidence
You are legally obliged to exchange your insurance details with any other drivers who might have been involved in the collision. This might mean providing your name, address, and phone numbers. The more evidence you have of the scene, the better. You might need dash-cam footage, pictures taken on your mobile phone, and video-recorded eyewitness testimony, when you come to make a legal claim later on. A good road traffic accident solicitor will be able to tell you which evidence is worth keeping hold of – but until you’re able to consult with them, it’s worth simply recording as much as you can.
When to notify the police and your insurer
In cases where people or property have been damaged, or the other motorist drove away without stopping or providing details, you’ll need to let the police know. A failure to notify them could reflect badly on you when you later come to make a claim. You should also notify your insurer immediately, even if you don’t intend to make a claim.
If you’re unable to show your cover note to the police, you’ll want to do so at a convenient station within a week. This will provide your insurer with proof that the accident actually did occur.
Understanding next steps
Your insurance claim should be started as early as possible. But your immediate priority should be to obtain medical treatment, even if the symptoms appear minor. You might be entitled to compensation if the other driver was to blame for the collision, and, in many cases, you’ll be able to obtain this compensation without ever attending court in person. If you’re injured to an extent that affects your ability to work, you might be entitled to additional benefits from the state, such as incapacity benefit.