If You Are A Party To A Car Accident What Action Must You Take?

The prospect of being involved in a car accident is quite daunting and, whilst we hope that you are never faced with such a situation, it is perhaps better to be prepared with some knowledge about a few of the things you may need to do should this happen.

There are certain things you should do if involved in a car accident – Image credit: zaphad1.

Following a road traffic accident that you are involved in you should stop at the scene and it should be noted that it is a legal requirement to do so. If at all possible, the car should be left in as safe a place as possible at the scene. Obviously, it is preferable that the vehicle’s engine be turned off and your hazard warning lights are put on. If someone has suffered an injury or the accident has blocked the road the police and/or ambulance service should be contacted by dialling 999.

Whether the other party to the vehicle that you have hit is present or not you have to exchange personal details such as your name and address.

You will need to keep a record of certain things to do with the accident such as the date and time of the accident. You will want the registration number of the other vehicle. It would be a good idea to make a note of the weather conditions at the time of the accident. Your mobile phone is probably equipped with a camera so it would be useful to take photos of the scene of the accident including damage to the vehicles. If there were any witnesses at the scene get their contact details.

As soon as possible after the accident you should contact the claims department of your car insurance company to notify them of the accident. They will notify you of the process that is to be followed as far as making your claim is concerned.