1. Stay Calm and Ensure Safety
First, stop the car immediately. It’s illegal not to stop after an accident. Check everyone involved—including yourself—for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Prioritise safety and move vehicles if it’s safe to do so.
2. Exchange Details with Others Involved
By law, you must give:
- Your name and address
- Your vehicle registration number
- Your insurance details (if asked)
This applies even if the accident was minor or you believe you’re at fault.
3. Report the Accident to the Police (If Required)
If there are injuries or significant damage and no details were exchanged at the scene, you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours. Otherwise, you could be fined or face further penalties.
4. Inform Your Insurance Company Immediately
Even if the damage seems minor, you must notify your insurer—especially if you were at fault. Provide:
- A truthful account of what happened
- Any photos or evidence you collected
- Witness details (if available)
Failure to report can invalidate your policy or affect future claims.
5. Accepting Fault Doesn’t Mean Losing All Rights
Admitting you caused the accident doesn’t prevent you from making a claim under your own policy. Your insurer may cover:
- Repairs to your vehicle (if you have comprehensive cover)
- Third-party damages and injuries
- Legal expenses, if included in your policy
You might have to pay an excess, and your premium may rise.
6. What Will Happen to My Insurance?
If you’re at fault:
- Your no-claims bonus may be reduced or lost (unless protected)
- Your insurance premium will likely increase at renewal
- You’ll need to declare the accident for the next five years
Speak to your insurer about how it will affect your record.
7. Can the Other Driver Claim Against Me?
Yes. The other driver can file a claim for:
- Vehicle repair
- Medical treatment
- Loss of earnings
Your insurer will handle the process and settle valid third-party claims on your behalf.
8. What If There Were Injuries?
If someone is injured, your insurer will deal with any personal injury claims against you. It’s essential to provide full medical information and support the claims process honestly. Never try to conceal facts or shift blame falsely—it can backfire legally.
9. Should I Still Gather Evidence?
Yes—even if you caused the crash. Take:
- Photos of all vehicles involved
- Road signs or hazards
- Witness contact info
This helps ensure accurate claims handling and may help dispute exaggerated or false claims against you.
10. Learn from the Incident to Avoid Future Accidents
If the accident was due to a mistake, distraction, or misjudgement, consider:
- Taking a driver improvement course
- Reviewing your insurance policy
- Reflecting on the cause to avoid future recurrence
Responsible driving protects both your safety and finances long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will I be prosecuted for causing a car accident in the UK?
If it was a genuine mistake and no serious offence (like drink driving) was involved, prosecution is unlikely. However, you may still receive points or a fine depending on the circumstances.
Q2: Can I still drive after an at-fault accident?
Yes—unless your vehicle is unroadworthy or you’ve been told not to by police or your insurer.
Q3: Will my insurance still cover me?
Yes, if your policy is active and you comply with its terms, your insurer will handle the claim even if you’re at fault.
Q4: Do I need to repair my own car?
If you have comprehensive cover, your insurer will arrange repairs. If you only have third-party insurance, you must cover your own repair costs.
Q5: Can the other driver sue me personally?
In most cases, your insurance covers all claims. However, if you’re uninsured or acted recklessly, you could be personally liable.
Q6: Will this affect future insurance quotes?
Yes, being at fault usually increases your premium. It’s important to shop around and be honest when disclosing accident history.
Conclusion
If you’ve had a car accident that was your fault in the UK, it’s important to act quickly, report everything properly, and cooperate with your insurer. While there may be financial consequences, handling the situation responsibly can help you move forward with confidence and minimise further impact.