If the unfortunate should happen and you are involved in a motor accident, it can be a stressful and very unpleasant time.
In the immediate aftermath of an accident there are important steps you must take to ensure people’s safety, and to make sure that the motor accident can be dealt with properly by you and your insurer.
After an incident you will need to report it as soon as possible. Plan’s Motor Claims Help Line number is 0333 003 0613
Read our guide below to help you remember what actions to take in the unlikely event of a motor accident.
You can also download our helpful Accident Scene Checklist that you can print off and keep in your glove box, in case of an accident. This form has all the important steps listed below, along with spaces to fill out the relevant information you need to collect.
| Motor Accident Scene Checklist Click here download and print our Motor Accident Scene Checklist |
Switch off your engine and turn on your hazard lights.
If they are then you should call the police – and the ambulance if necessary (Call 999 or 101) as soon as you can.
If the accident is blocking a road you may try to move your vehicle to the side of the road as long as it is safe to do so.
Even if there is no person involved in the accident, you still need to leave your details – for example if you crash into something on or near the road such as a parked car.
Car accidents should be reported to the police within 24 hours. Failure to do so could result in a fine, penalty points or even disqualification.
Avoid saying sorry or accepting blame for the accident until you know precisely what happened as it could count against you later on.
Names, Addresses & Contact Numbers
Insurance details from any drivers involved
Are they the registered keeper of the vehicle?
If they aren’t, get the name and address of the person who is.
If someone leaves the scene of the car accident without giving their details, call 999 straight away.
Registration Numbers of all vehicles involved, along with colour, make and model
Time and Date of the accident
Sketch showing the positions of vehicles involved
Description of the weather conditions, plus anything unusual you notice about the road quality or lighting
Names of any witnesses or police officers at the scene
List any damage to vehicles and describe any injuries sustained by pedestrians, drivers and passengers.
If you can, take photographs of the accident and any damage to potentially utilise as evidence.
Read more: The Motor Claims Process Explained
Read more: The importance of selecting the right accident management company