Road Traffic Accident Claims

 Your safety and the safety of others is the top priority. Following these steps can protect your well-being and strengthen any subsequent claim for compensation.

Step 1: Stop & Ensure Safety

• You must stop. It is an offence to drive away from the scene of an accident.

• Switch on your hazard lights.

• Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 999 immediately for an ambulance and the police.

Step 2: Report to the Police (If Necessary)
You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if:

• Anyone is injured.

• The other driver leaves the scene without providing their details.

• You suspect the other driver is under the influence of drink or drugs.

• The other driver has not produced valid insurance documents.

Step 3: Exchange Details
Remain calm and polite. Exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved:

• Name and address

• Telephone number

• Vehicle registration number

• Insurance details (insurer and policy number)

Avoid doing this:

• Do not admit fault or liability at the scene. This can complicate your claim later. Simply stick to the facts.

• Do not get into a confrontation.

Step 4: Gather Evidence (Crucial for Your Claim)

The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your claim will be.

• Take Photos & Videos: Use your mobile phone to capture:

  • The positions of all vehicles involved before they are moved.

  • The damage to all vehicles from multiple angles.

  • The wider scene, including road markings, traffic signs, skid marks, and weather conditions.

  • Any visible injuries (e.g., cuts, bruising).

• Note Down Details:

  • The time, date, and exact location of the accident.

  • The make, model, and colour of the other vehicle(s).

  • The name and badge number of any police officers who attend.

• Look for Witnesses:

  • Ask any bystanders or other motorists who saw what happened if they would be willing to provide a statement. Politely ask for their name and contact number.

Step 5: Report to Your Insurer.

You must inform your insurance company about the accident, even if you are not at fault and do not intend to make a claim through them. Check your policy for the required timeframes.

Step 6: Seek Legal Advice

• Even if you feel fine, some injuries like whiplash can take hours or days to become apparent.

• Contact us for a free, no-obligation assessment of your case. We can refer you to an expert personal injury solicitor who can advise you on your right to claim compensation for your injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses like lost earnings.