Getting into a car accident can be stressful and confusing. You may feel shaken up or unsure about what to do next. If you find yourself involved in a car accident or road traffic accident, knowing the correct steps to take can help protect you legally and financially. It can also make the process of dealing with the accident smoother and less worrying.
This guide will explain clearly how to report a car accident or road traffic accident in the UK. You will learn when and how to inform the police, your insurance company, and what important information to collect. By the end, you will be confident about what to do after an accident to keep yourself safe and avoid problems later.
Why Is Reporting a Car Accident Important?
First, it’s important to understand why you need to report an accident. Reporting helps:
- Fulfil legal requirements: The law requires you to stop and share information if you are involved in an accident. Failing to do this can lead to fines, points on your licence, or even prison in serious cases.
- Help in making claims: If you want to claim compensation for injuries or damage, you will need proof that you reported the accident properly.
- Protect your insurance: Your insurer must be informed as soon as possible to ensure your policy remains valid.
- Ensure safety: Reporting serious accidents helps emergency services respond quickly to injuries or hazards on the road
What Are Your Legal Responsibilities After a Car Accident?
Under the Road Traffic Act 1988, if you are involved in a road traffic accident, you must:
- Stop your vehicle safely. Even if the accident seems minor, you must stop and not drive away.
- Provide your details to anyone involved, including:
- Your name and address
- Your vehicle registration number
- The name and address of the vehicle owner if you are not the owner
- Report the accident to the police if:
- You cannot exchange details at the scene
- The other driver fails to stop or give their details
- Someone is injured or there is damage to property or animals
- The accident causes obstruction or danger on the road
If you fail to stop or report properly, you could face a fine, penalty points, or up to six months in prison.
Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You Have a Car Accident
1. Stop and Find a Safe Place
If your vehicle is still drivable after the accident, pull over to a safe place off the road. This helps prevent further accidents or blocking traffic. Turn on your hazard lights so other drivers can see you.
2. Check for Injuries
Check yourself, your passengers, and others involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 immediately for medical assistance.
3. Get to a Safe Spot
If it is safe to do so, exit the vehicle and move to a secure area away from the traffic, such as behind a crash barrier or on the pavement. On motorways, use the hard shoulder and stay behind the barrier.
4. Call Emergency Services When Needed
For serious accidents, call the police and ambulance immediately. If you are on a motorway, use the nearest SOS phone to call for help. These phones give emergency services your exact location.
5. Exchange Details with Other Parties
You must exchange the following information with other drivers or people involved:
- Full name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance details
- Contact number
If the vehicle is not yours, also give the owner’s name and address.
6. Do Not Admit Fault or Apologise
Avoid admitting blame or saying sorry at the scene. Even if you think you were at fault, admitting this can affect insurance claims or legal cases later.
7. Take Photos and Collect Evidence
If it is safe, take photos of:
- The accident scene
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- Road conditions or signs
- Any injuries you or others have sustained
Also, try to gather:
- Witness names and contact details
- Any dashcam or CCTV footage if available
This evidence helps prove what happened and who was responsible.
8. Report the Accident to the Police if Required
You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if:
- You did not exchange details at the scene
- Someone was injured
- Property or animals were damaged
- The other driver did not stop or provide their details
You can report in person at a police station or call the non-emergency number 101.
9. Inform Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer as soon as possible, even if you do not intend to make a claim. Your policy usually requires prompt reporting. Failing to inform them may invalidate your cover.
Reporting Hit-and-Run or Uninsured Driver Accidents
If the other driver flees the scene or is uninsured, you can still make a claim. You should:
- Report the incident to the police immediately to get a reference number.
- Claim compensation through the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB), which handles claims involving uninsured or unidentified drivers.
- The MIB claim will not affect your no-claims bonus.
Why Collecting Evidence Matters
Accident claims often come down to proving who was at fault. That’s why collecting evidence is crucial. Good evidence can:
- Support your version of events
- Help with insurance claims and compensation
- Protect you against false accusations
Evidence can include photos, videos, police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
What Happens After You Report the Accident?
Once you report an accident to the police and insurer:
- The police may investigate and file an official report.
- Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process.
- You might be asked to provide further evidence or attend medical exams.
- If injuries were serious, you could be referred to a solicitor to help claim compensation.
Many solicitors offer No Win No Fee agreements, which means you only pay legal fees if your claim succeeds.
Tips for Handling the Situation Calmly and Safely
- Stay calm and be polite.
- Do not argue with other drivers.
- Focus on facts and avoid speculation.
- Prioritise safety and medical help.
- Take notes about what happened while it is fresh in your mind.
- Keep copies of all paperwork related to the accident.
Summary: How To Report a Car Accident
- Stop immediately and ensure safety.
- Check for injuries and call emergency services if needed.
- Exchange contact and vehicle details with others involved.
- Avoid admitting fault or apologising.
- Collect evidence such as photos, witness contacts, and medical reports.
- Report to police within 24 hours if required.
- Notify your insurer as soon as possible.
- Use the Motor Insurers Bureau if the other driver is uninsured or a hit-and-run.
- Consider legal advice if you want to claim compensation.
Conclusion
Reporting a car accident can seem overwhelming, especially when emotions are high. However, knowing the right steps will help you protect yourself legally and financially. Always stop at the scene, ensure safety, collect evidence, and report the accident properly to the police and your insurer.
If you are unsure or need help with a claim, many services and solicitors specialise in car accident cases. You do not have to face it alone.
Remember, following the correct procedures after an accident will make a big difference in resolving the situation smoothly and fairly.
