What to Do in a Car Crash
Although none of us ever hope to be involved in a collision, sometimes it happens. When it does, the line between havoc and safety can be a thin one, but knowing just what to do in the event of a crash can keep you and your loved ones safe, as well as upholding the safety of other road users, too. That’s why, in this month’s article, we’ll be looking at what you should do when you’re involved in a car crash.
Stop! Even for Minor Accidents
No matter how minor the accident may be, you have a legal obligation to stop your car; leaving the scene is a crime. Even for a larger collision though, the first thing you should do is ensure that your engine is off. If relevant, you should turn your car’s hazard lights on to warn other road users.
Report the Collision
First of all, you’ll need to look around and decide on the seriousness of the accident, calling 101 if it isn’t too bad and 999 if it is. If anyone has been injured you should call the emergency services immediately. Similarly, if you believe you are the victim of a crash for cash insurance scam, then you should call the police as soon as possible. Failure to report an accident is also a criminal offence that you should be wary of committing.
Give/Collect Details
At the scene of the accident, you will have to give your details to anyone else involved in the collision and collect their details, too. These include:
- Registration numbers
- Names and addresses of all involved and any witnesses
- Contact information
- Insurance details
- Who the registered owners of the vehicles are
Taking down the details of any witnesses may help your case when making a claim later, and they have a legal obligation to stop if they witness the entire collision. If someone else leaves the scene of the accident right away, call 999 immediately. This person will be committing a crime, as outlined above, and the police must be involved.
At all times you should refrain from apologising in any way until you have firmly settled what happened; apologies can work against you down the line, putting the blame on you.
Jot Everything Down
- Sketching the positions of the cars
- A description of the weather and related driving conditions, such as lighting
- A list of damages sustained to the vehicle
- Details of any harm done to any persons
- Estimated speed of all vehicles
- The makes, models and registration numbers of all vehicles involved
Hitting Animals
If you hit a horse, ass, mule, cow, pig, sheep, goat or dog, you must stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident and contact the authorities. The only time where you would not need to do so is if the animal died while inside your own vehicle or trailer. Any other animal you might hit, such as a deer, does not necessarily require the attention of the emergency services. If no one has been harmed, simply take detailed notes of what happened and then call your recovery service.
Munster Tyres and Servicing have been a leading provider of car servicing and repairs to the Fulham and North London areas for 40 years. Our team of experienced professionals are experts when it comes to caring for your car. For more information about booking your car in for a service or repairs, contact our friendly team today.