It’s one of those things we are always prepared for, but never expect to happen.
But, even the most experienced of drivers can have a car accident.
If this should happen there are some key actions to take.
First of all stop the car. Sometimes this may mean finding somewhere safe to pull over. Not stopping is an offence.
Check all your passengers for injuries, before checking if anyone from other cars involved have sustained any injuries. Make a record of this. Some unscrupulous people will try to claim injuries after the crash in the hope of compensation.
If there are any injuries call an ambulance.
However, you don’t need to call the police to every accident. If the road is blocked, the other driver didn’t stop or you suspect the other drivers are drunk, under the influence of drugs or you suspect they caused the accident deliberately call the police to the scene.
If they are not called to the scene, you must however, contact the police via 101 within 24 hours to inform them that an accident took place.
It is a legal requirement if there is damage to the car or injuries to passengers or drivers to share names and addresses, as well as swapping insurance information. If the other drivers refuse to do this call the police.
One of the most important things is not to admit culpability at the scene of the accident. You may be in shock from the accident and may not be fully aware of the facts.
You must also inform your insurance provider about the accident, as even if you are not intending to claim, one of the other parties involved may do so.
If you wanted to brush up on your road safety why not give Julie Murphy’s Driving School a call at 07927 211 131, and reduce your likelihood of having an accident.