We go through our lives hoping not to be involved in a road traffic accident (often called an ‘RTA’). They can be life-threatening, traumatising and extremely expensive. However, RTAs happen regularly, and when they do, they can be frightening, confusing, and, in the moment, hard to know what you should actually do.
Whether the accident is minor or more serious, the steps you take straight after can make a real difference… for both your safety and for any future insurance or legal claim.
Here is a step-by-step guide on what to do after an RTA:
- Check everyone is safe
The number one priority is to check that everyone is safe. People trump vehicles every time. Depending on the seriousness of the accident, if you can, check yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone appears to be seriously hurt, call 999.
If it is safe to do so, move to a place away from traffic. Do not put yourself at risk by standing in the road or between vehicles.
You might feel ‘fine’, but it’s always worth getting checked over because shock and adrenaline can mask injuries following a collision.
- Make the scene safe
After the accident, your vehicle might be causing an obstruction to other road users. If it is safe to do so, switch on your hazard lights and move your car out of the way. Use a warning triangle if you have one; they are usually located in the boot of your car. Place the warning triangle 45 meters from your car. Remember, if the RTA happened on a busy road, make sure it’s safe to perform these tasks, and if not, do not risk it.
Try to stay calm at the roadside and avoid heated discussions. Emotions can run high after an accident, and what you say in the moment can later be understood.
- Call the police if necessary
You should call the police if:
- anyone is injured
- the road is blocked
- there is a dispute about the accident
- one of the drivers leaves the scene
- you are unable to exchange details
In more serious incidents, the police will attend the scene and create an official record, which can be very helpful later.
- Exchange details with the other driver
By law, you must exchange certain details with the other parties involved in the accident.
You should take note of:
- the driver's name and address
- the name and address of the vehicle owner (if different)
- the registration number of the vehicle
- insurance details
If there are witnesses, try to take down their names and contact details as well. Witnesses can be extremely valuable if there is a disagreement about the accident later down the line.
- Take photographs and make notes
We would recommend taking pictures at the scene, as they can be used as evidence to help with your case. The photographs don’t need to be picture-perfect, just to show what has happened.
Useful photographs include:
- the position of the vehicles
- damage to all vehicles involved
- the road layout, signs and markings
- any skid marks or debris
- weather and lighting conditions
If you are able to, it’s useful to jot down the incident and how it happened on your phone, while it’s still fresh in your mind.
- Seek medical attention
Even if your injuries seem minor, please get them checked by a medical professional as soon as possible. RTA common injuries, such as whiplash, soft tissue injuries or back pain, can take hours or even days to become noticeable.
From a legal perspective, a medical record linking your injuries to the accident is very important if you later decide to bring a claim.
- Report the accident to your insurer
Even if you do not intend to make a claim, most insurance policies require you to report the accident. It is usually best to inform your insurer promptly and provide them with basic and factual information about the accident. Try not to guess or speculate about fault if you are unsure, simply explain what you know.
- Keep hold of all paperwork and evidence
It’s important to store all the relevant information regarding the accident safely. You may be required to share photographs or notes with your insurer, the police or a Solicitor.
Try to keep:
- photographs and videos
- medical records or appointment letters
- repair estimates and invoices
- receipts for expenses such as taxis, medication or parking
- correspondence with insurers
Either keep them safe on a file on your computer or in a box you know where to find. They can be key in helping you with a personal injury or vehicle damage claim later.
- Think about whether you may have a claim
If the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, then you may be able to bring a claim forward. For example, if another driver failed to stop, pulling out when it was unsafe, or driving without due care and attention.
A claim can include compensation for:
- medical and treatment costs
- travel expenses
- loss of earnings if you have had time off work
- pain and suffering caused by your injuries
- care or support you have needed following the accident
Every case is unique, and even accidents that appear relatively straightforward can become complicated once the insurers become involved.
- Get legal advice early
Some people wait until the insurers find the problems before speaking to a Solicitor.
Getting advice early can help you avoid common pitfalls and protect your position from the start.
Our Personal Injury team has extensive experience in road traffic accident claims. We provide clear advice, handle all negotiations on your behalf, and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve. We understand the stress that accidents cause and pride ourselves on offering a supportive and approachable service.
Please contact us on 01256 844888 or email enquiries@lambbrooks.com