Few things are more stressful than a road accident, and in the moment it is easy to forget what you are supposed to do. Keeping a clear plan in mind protects both your safety and your insurance position. Here is a calm, step-by-step list to follow.
At the scene
- Stop the car, switch off the engine and turn on your hazard lights.
- Check whether anyone is injured and call the emergency services if needed.
- Stay calm and avoid admitting fault, even if you think you were to blame.
Exchange the right details
- Swap names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance details with any other driver.
- Note the make, model and registration of every vehicle involved.
- Take photographs of the damage, the road layout and any relevant road signs.
Afterwards
Report the incident to your insurer as soon as you can, even if you do not intend to claim, because most policies require it. If anyone was injured or the road was blocked, you must also report it to the police within the legal time limit. Keeping a small notebook and pen in your glovebox makes gathering this information far easier when you are flustered.