Being in a car accident is stressful, especially when it wasn’t your fault. Knowing what to do in the moments and days afterwards can protect your safety, your finances and your claim. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide.
1. Stop and check for injuries
Stop your vehicle, switch off the engine and put your hazard lights on. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 immediately. It’s a legal requirement to stop after an accident involving another person or vehicle.
2. Make the scene safe
If it’s safe to do so, move to the side of the road and out of danger. Warn oncoming traffic if you can. Don’t stand in a live lane of traffic.
3. Exchange details
Swap names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance details with the other driver. Note their vehicle registration, make, model and colour. You’re legally required to give your details if you’re involved in an accident that causes damage or injury.
4. Gather evidence
This is where you protect your claim. If it’s safe, take photographs and video of:
- The position of both vehicles before they’re moved
- Damage to all vehicles involved
- The road layout, road signs and any skid marks
- The other driver’s number plate
Get the names and contact details of any witnesses. If there’s CCTV or dashcam footage available, note it.
5. Don’t admit fault
Even if you think you might be partly to blame, don’t admit fault at the scene. Liability is a legal question that’s decided on the evidence — not on a quick conversation by the roadside.
6. Report the accident
Report the accident to the police within 24 hours if details weren’t exchanged at the scene, or if you suspect the other driver was uninsured or under the influence.
7. Call an accident management company
Rather than going straight to your own insurer — which can cost you your excess and no-claims bonus — contact an accident management company. For a non-fault accident, they recover all costs from the at-fault driver’s insurer, arrange a replacement vehicle and handle your repairs, at no cost to you.
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Please note: this article is general information about how non-fault accident claims usually work. It is not legal advice and does not create a client relationship. Every claim turns on its own facts — if you need advice on your situation, get in touch and we’ll talk it through with you.