What to do if you crash your car
•
Accidents happen. Try to stay calm and don't lose your temper. Don't
admit blame at the scene of the accident or offer any form of
settlement.
• Stop
at the scene if you think your accident has caused injuries or damage
to vehicles or property. It is an offence not to stop.
• If
your car hits a dog or farm animal, you are required by law to report
the incident to the police. If you hit a cat or wild animal, there is
no obligation to report it, but you must ensure that the animal is not
injured or suffering.
•
Ensure the scene is safe. Switch off all engines, turn on hazard
warning lights and alert oncoming traffic about the accident.
• Call
999 (or 112 from a mobile) immediately if anyone involved in the
accident is injured, the collision has caused a hazardous situation, or
someone leaves the scene without exchanging details. If you're unsure
about whether you should call the police - make the call. The police
don't usually attend road traffic accidents where there are no injuries
but it is still worth reporting the incident.
• Always keep an accident pack
in the car. This should consist of a notebook, pen and disposable
camera or your mobile phone if this takes |
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pictures. In the event of an accident,
make a sketch at the scene. Remember to note as many details as you can
such as street names, vehicle locations and direction of travel, skid
marks, collision points and vehicle damage. Use the camera to take
photos showing the road layout, position of vehicles and their damage
(take care near busy roads).
•
Get the names, addresses and vehicle registrations of any witnesses
(including passengers in the other vehicles involved).
• Take
down the registration number, make, model and colour of all other
vehicles involved in the accident. All drivers involved must exchange
details by law. Ask them for their name, address, telephone numbers
(don't just get a mobile number but a home number too) and insurance
details. You must also provide this information about yourself.
•
Record any other details you think may be important eg use of mobile
phone, if you think the driver of the other vehicle has been drinking,
weather conditions etc.
• You
must notify your insurance company immediately of any collision you are
involved in, regardless of whether or not a claim is to be made or
whose fault it was. Give them all the details, notes, photographs etc.
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