Car Insurance

It is against the law not to stop at the scene if you think your accident has caused damage to property or caused injury. First ensure that the scene is safe. Switch off all engines, turn on hazard lights and make sure oncoming traffic is aware of the accident. Dial 999 if anyone is injured, or if someone leaves the scene without exchanging details. If you think the accident scene may be a hazard to other drivers also call 999.

Stay calm. Don’t admit blame no matter how clear-cut you may think the cause of the accident is. Use a notepad to sketch out how the accident happened whilst you are still at the scene. Note down street names, vehicle locations and direction of travel, skid marks, collision points and any damage. Back this up with photos, most mobile phones have cameras these days.

By law, all drivers involved in the accident must exchange contact details with each other. These details include names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance details. Get the names and addresses of any witnesses, including passengers in the other vehicles involved.

Include any other details you think may be of relevance e.g. if you think the driver of the other vehicle was intoxicated or that they were using a mobile phone note this down. If weather conditions may have contributed to the accident, e.g. rain or fog, note this fact down too. Damage to the road surface, such as potholes or parked cars may have contributed as well, so note this on your sketch too.

If you hit a dog or farm animal you must report the incident to the police. If you hit a cat or wild animal you do not have to report it, as long as the animal is not injured or suffering. It is also against the law not to stop at the scene of an accident if you think the accident has caused injury or damage to vehicles or property.

Report all accidents to your insurance company even if you do not plan to make a claim. Make a photocopy of all notes and photos and send these to your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident.

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