The moments after a road accident can be confusing and stressful. Knowing a few practical steps can protect your safety, your health and your ability to make a claim later if you need to.
1. Make sure everyone is safe
Your first priority is safety. If you can, switch on your hazard lights and turn off the engine. Move to a safe place away from traffic if it is safe to do so. If anyone is injured, or the road is blocked or dangerous, call 999.
2. Stop and exchange details
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, a driver involved in an accident that causes injury or damage must stop. You should exchange names, addresses and vehicle registration numbers with the other drivers involved, and insurance details where appropriate.
If you cannot exchange details at the scene, for example because the other driver drove off, the accident must be reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event within 24 hours. Where someone is injured and insurance details are not produced at the scene, the accident should also be reported to the police.
3. Record what you can
If it is safe, collect information while it is fresh:
- Photographs of the vehicles, their positions and any damage
- The road layout, signs, weather and lighting conditions
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- The make, model and colour of the other vehicles
- Dashcam footage, which you should save before it is overwritten
Avoid arguing about who was at fault at the scene, and do not admit liability. Stick to exchanging the information you need.
4. Get medical attention
Some injuries, including whiplash and concussion, may not be obvious straight away. See your GP, call NHS 111 or go to A&E if you have symptoms. A medical record made soon after the accident is also useful evidence if you later make a claim.
5. Tell your insurer
Most motor insurance policies require you to report an accident promptly, even if you do not intend to claim on your own policy. Check your policy documents for the requirements and any legal expenses cover you may have.
6. Keep a record of your losses
Keep receipts for expenses such as prescriptions, travel to appointments and repairs. Note any time off work and lost earnings. A simple diary of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life can help later.
What about making a claim?
If another road user caused the accident, you may be able to claim compensation for your injuries and losses. Many lower-value injury claims by adults are now handled through the Official Injury Claim service, and whiplash injuries are valued using a fixed tariff. Different rules apply to some road users, such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, and to children.
Most claims must be started within three years of the accident. Read more about road traffic accident claims, or get in touch to discuss your situation.
