1. Stop Immediately and Stay Calm
If you’re involved in a car accident—no matter how minor—you must stop your vehicle. Failing to do so is an offence under UK law. Turn on your hazard lights and:
- Take a deep breath
- Stay calm
- Assess the situation
Move your vehicle to a safe location if it’s drivable and not causing further danger.
2. Check for Injuries and Call Emergency Services if Needed
Before doing anything else, check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt:
- Call 999 immediately for ambulance or police assistance
- Do not attempt to move seriously injured individuals unless there is immediate danger (e.g. fire)
Even minor injuries should be taken seriously, as symptoms can worsen later.
3. Make the Scene Safe
Prevent further accidents by:
- Setting up a warning triangle if you have one
- Keeping your hazard lights on
- Moving to the roadside if it’s unsafe to stay in the vehicle
If the accident is blocking the road or causing a hazard, inform the police.
4. Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Legally, you must exchange:
- Name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance details (if asked)
Also try to gather:
- Contact info for passengers and witnesses
- Driver’s licence numbers
- The make, model, and colour of all vehicles involved
Do not admit fault at the scene. Stick to factual statements only.
5. Document the Scene
Use your smartphone to:
- Take photos of all vehicles involved, including damage and positions
- Capture road conditions, skid marks, signs, and traffic signals
- Record visible injuries
Write down the time, date, and exact location of the crash. This evidence is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
6. Report the Accident
You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours if:
- Someone was injured
- The other driver failed to stop
- There’s damage to public property
Also report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible—even if you’re not planning to make a claim.
7. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, visit your GP or local A&E. Injuries like whiplash, concussion, or soft tissue damage may take hours or days to appear. A medical report also supports any compensation claim.
8. Contact a Personal Injury Solicitor (if Injured)
If you were hurt in the accident and someone else was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation. A no win no fee solicitor can:
- Evaluate your case for free
- Help you claim for injury, loss of income, and expenses
- Manage all legal communication
You have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in the UK.
9. Keep Records of Everything
Organise all documentation, including:
- Medical reports and receipts
- Repair bills or car replacement costs
- Insurance correspondence
- Witness details and police reports
This makes the claims process faster and more efficient, and ensures you don’t lose out on compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first if I have a car accident?
Stop immediately, check for injuries, and call emergency services if needed. Then exchange information and document the scene.
Should I report a minor accident to the police?
Yes, if someone is injured, the other driver flees, or you damage public property. Always notify your insurer.
Can I claim compensation if the accident wasn’t my fault?
Yes. You can claim for injuries, vehicle damage, and financial losses through a solicitor or your insurer.
What if I feel fine after the accident?
Still get a medical check. Some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Medical evidence is essential for health and legal reasons.
Will my insurance go up if I report the accident?
Not necessarily. But failing to report it could invalidate your policy. Always check with your insurer.
How long do I have to claim for injury after a car accident?
You have 3 years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim in the UK.
Conclusion
Knowing what to do if you have a car accident can protect your health, finances, and legal rights. From immediate safety steps to documenting the scene and seeking compensation, every action matters. Stay calm, act quickly, and get the support you need to recover—both physically and financially.