What to do in Case of an Accident Whilst Driving

Don’t flee! Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, it is an offence to drive away from the scene of an accident regardless of how harmless an accident appears. 

Don’t lose your temper - even if the other driver is at fault, arguing will not resolve anything and could make the situation worse. 

Don’t admit responsibility - even if you think you were partially at fault, saying anything that implies you’re responsible for the accident will make things difficult for you later. 

Don’t apologise as this may be seen as an admission of guilt and could go against you later on. It could cost you the right to claim accident compensation even if you were not actually at fault. 

Don’t deny any injury - telling people you do not need medical treatment could prevent you from receiving personal injury compensation. 

Stop the vehicle as soon as possible - it is against the law to drive away following the accident. 

Turn the engine off. 

Turn on hazard lights - warn other drivers of your stationary position. 

Check for any injuries to yourself or passengers - if it’s a minor collision and there are no injuries, make a note of it just in case the other people try to claim for an injury. 

If anyone is seriously injured or the road is blocked, immediately dial 999 for the emergency services. 

If none of the occupants of your vehicle are seriously injured, get out when safe to do so and take stock of the situation. 

Exchange details - exchange name, address, telephone number and vehicle registration with anyone involved including witnesses. 

Call us at Hedon Insurance on 01482 707800. 

Take photographs of the scene of the accident, the damage to your vehicle and injuries sustained by all occupants of your vehicle. Also get photographs of the damage to any other vehicles involved so other parties cannot make false claims about the extent of the damage at a later time.