words Alana Webb
You are suddenly involved in an auto accident – do you know what to do next? Many motorists do not know what to do after being in an accident, which can be dangerous in a few different ways. There are a few important steps to take after any kind of accident to ensure safety, legal compliance, and proper documentation for insurance and potential personal injury claims.
Ensure Safety & Assess the Situation
Safety should always be the main priority after any kind of road traffic accident. You should immediately stop the vehicle, put the hazard lights on, and check yourself and your passengers for any injuries. If possible, you should move the vehicle to a safe location to prevent blocking traffic. Keep in mind that there is a legal obligation to stop after an accident, regardless of its severity.
Notify Emergency Services
You should call emergency services on 999 in an emergency, which can include:
- If someone is seriously injured
- If someone is in danger
- You believe a crime has been committed
- The ancient has caused a blockage or obstruction on the road
You should also call the police if you are unable to exchange details at the scene. Obtaining an official report can be incredibly useful for insurance and legal purposes, so be sure to keep hold of a copy.
Documenting the Accident Scene
Collecting evidence at the scene is hugely important for determining the sequence of events and supporting any insurance and/or personal injury claim. Evidence should include photos/videos of the accident site, damage, and injuries sustained. You can also ask for CCTV footage, dash cam footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. It is also helpful if you write down as much as you can recall as possible – it can be easy to forget after the shock has worn off.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
You must also report the accident to your insurance company within 24 hours, even if you do not plan on making a claim. Failure to report an accident could invalidate your insurance and cause complications if the other party makes a claim. Provide them with as much information as possible about what happened. If you believe that the accident was not your fault, you could be entitled to compensation. Seeking legal aid from professional personal injury lawyers will help determine whether or not you have a case.
These are the main steps that you must take following a road traffic accident. It is not always easy to know what to do after an accident, especially as they often leave you feeling shaken, but it is vital that the right steps are followed in order to ensure safety, legal compliance, and proper documentation if you end up making a claim with your insurance company and/or a personal injury claim.
