1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
Immediately after a car accident:
- Stop the vehicle and turn off the engine
- Switch on your hazard lights
- Check yourself and others for injuries
- Move to a safe place if possible
If anyone is injured or the road is blocked, call 999 for emergency services.
2. Call the Police if Required
You must call the police if:
- There are injuries
- The other driver flees the scene
- You suspect the other driver is under the influence
- There’s damage to public property
The police will log the incident and may file an accident report—valuable for insurance and legal claims.
3. Exchange Information with Other Drivers
Legally, you’re required to share:
- Name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance details (if requested)
If the other party refuses to cooperate, note their licence plate and report it to the police immediately.
4. Document the Accident Scene
Use your phone to take photos or videos of:
- Vehicle positions and damage
- Road signs, markings, and weather conditions
- Injuries (if visible)
- Any contributing hazards (e.g. potholes, debris)
Also write down the time, date, and location of the crash while the details are fresh.
5. Speak to Witnesses and Collect Contact Details
If anyone saw the crash, politely ask for:
- Their full name
- Contact information
- A brief statement of what they witnessed
Independent witnesses can help clarify what happened if there’s a dispute later.
6. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Inform your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible, even if you don’t intend to make a claim. Provide them with:
- Accident details
- Photos and evidence
- Police report number (if applicable)
Delaying notification may affect your coverage or ability to recover costs.
7. Seek Medical Attention—Even for Minor Symptoms
Some injuries like whiplash, concussion, or soft tissue damage might not appear immediately. Visit a GP or A&E if you:
- Feel pain, dizziness, or stiffness
- Experience headaches or blurred vision
- Develop anxiety or shock symptoms
Medical records also support any potential injury claim.
8. Consider Making a Compensation Claim
If the accident wasn’t your fault and you were injured, you may be entitled to claim for:
- Pain and suffering
- Lost earnings
- Medical and rehabilitation costs
- Vehicle damage or replacement
A no win no fee solicitor can help assess your claim and handle the process for you.
9. Be Aware of the Legal Time Limit
In the UK, the time limit to bring a personal injury claim is 3 years from the date of the accident. Start your claim early to:
- Preserve evidence
- Obtain medical reports
- Avoid time-barred claims
If you were under 18 at the time of the accident, the 3-year period starts on your 18th birthday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do first after a car accident?
Ensure safety, check for injuries, and call emergency services if needed. Then exchange information with the other driver.
Do I have to report a car accident to the police in the UK?
Yes, if there are injuries, the other driver leaves the scene, or public property is damaged.
Should I see a doctor if I feel fine?
Yes. Some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms. Medical checks protect your health and help with future claims.
Can I claim for compensation even if the accident was minor?
Yes. If you were injured or suffered financial losses, you may still be eligible to claim.
What if the other driver was uninsured?
You can claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) for injuries or damage caused by uninsured or untraced drivers.
How long does it take to settle a car accident claim?
Simple cases can settle within 3–6 months. Complex cases may take 12 months or more depending on injuries and liability disputes.
Conclusion
Knowing what happens after a car accident helps you stay calm and take control of a stressful situation. From ensuring safety and collecting evidence to notifying insurers and seeking medical care, every step plays a role in protecting your health, rights, and financial wellbeing. Whether you plan to claim compensation or not, acting smartly from the start makes all the difference.