No matter how carefully you drive, a road traffic accident can happen when you least expect it. In those first few moments, it’s natural to feel shaken, but what you do next is critical. Acting quickly and correctly ensures everyone’s safety, protects your legal position, and helps smooth out the insurance process.
In this post, we’ll walk through the steps after a car accident UK drivers must follow, highlighting both the legal obligations after a road accident and practical safety tips to keep in mind.
1. Make Safety Your First Priority
The law is clear: if you’re involved in an accident, you must stop immediately. Beyond that, take these crucial steps:
Switch on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
Check for injuries to yourself, passengers, and others involved.
If safe, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further danger.
Remaining calm and acting fast can make a life-saving difference.
2. Contact the Right Authorities
Not sure who to call after a car accident? It depends on the situation:
999 – Call if anyone is injured, traffic is blocked, or there’s a serious hazard like leaking fuel.
101 – Use the non-emergency police line for less urgent incidents.
Medical help – Even minor injuries like whiplash should be checked by a doctor.
3. Exchange the Correct Details
UK law requires drivers to exchange the following information:
Full name and address.
Vehicle registration number.
Insurance provider details.
If the other driver refuses, report it to the police as soon as possible.
4. Collect Evidence at the Scene
One of the most useful things you can do is gather evidence. This will strengthen your position in case of disputes or claims. Your car accident emergency checklist should include:
Taking photos of damage, number plates, and the accident scene.
Writing down road conditions, weather, and the time of day.
Asking witnesses for their names and contact numbers.
5. Report the Accident
Reporting a road traffic accident UK rules:
If you haven’t exchanged details at the scene, you must report the incident to the police within 24 hours.
Always inform your insurance company, even if you’re not making a claim.
Failing to do so could invalidate your cover.
6. Get a Medical Check-Up
Not all injuries show immediately. Whiplash, concussion, or internal injuries may only become obvious hours later. A visit to your GP or hospital ensures your wellbeing and provides essential records for any potential personal injury claim after car accident cases.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurers expect to be informed about any accident, no matter how minor. Have this information ready:
Date, time, and location of the incident.
Details of the other driver(s).
Police reference number if applicable.
This keeps your policy valid and avoids complications later.
8. Don’t Fall Into These Common Traps
Many drivers accidentally weaken their case by making mistakes in the aftermath of a crash. Avoid these pitfalls:
Never admit fault at the scene – leave that to insurers.
Don’t accept cash offers – this can void your insurance rights.
Don’t skip medical checks – hidden injuries can cause problems later.
Never leave without reporting, it’s a criminal offence.
9. Take Care of the Follow-Up
After the immediate steps are done, you may still need to:
Arrange for car repairs.
Pursue a claim if you’re entitled to compensation.
Contact the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) if the other driver was uninsured or untraceable.
Quick Safety Tips Every Driver Should Remember
Keep a first aid kit, torch, and warning triangle in your car.
Save emergency numbers in your phone.
Know your insurance details and store them securely.
Review your policy regularly so you’re not caught off guard.
Final Thoughts
Accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do after a road traffic accident will help you stay in control. From ensuring safety at the scene to fulfilling your legal obligations after a road accident, each step protects your health, finances, and peace of mind.
The golden rules? Stay calm, gather evidence, report promptly, and avoid common mistakes. With this knowledge in hand, you’ll be better prepared to handle any situation with confidence.
