Yorks Leading Personal Injury Lawyers

Many people are unsure of whether or not to report a car accident to the police. Accidents involving injuries should always be reported.

We explain the exact steps you should take when reporting an accident.

Who should report a car accident?

Anyone driving a vehicle that is involved in a collision that results in damage or injury to another person, vehicle, property or animals such as dogs, horses, cattle or sheep, is required to stop. They must also provide their vehicle registration and  name and address to anyone ‘with reasonable grounds to be asking for those details.’

If you fail to do this, you could face punishment including a fine or even a maximum prison sentence of up to six months.

Actions you should take after a road accident :

• Find a safe place to stop, and only leave the vehicle if it is safe to do so.
• Seek medical attention: If anyone is injured seek medical attention immediately. This may require calling an ambulance.
• Exchange details: Swap contact details, names, vehicle registration and address with the third party.
• Report to the police
• Witness Details, Get details of any witnesses
• Do not admit fault: It is important to not admit fault or apologise for the accident at this stage, as its possible it could be used as evidence against you.
• Inform your insurer: Failure to do so may invalidate your policy.

What details do I need to exchange following an accident?

After being involved in a road traffic accident, you need to exchange the following details :

• Name, address and contact details
• Vehicle registration number
• If the vehicle you have been driving belongs to someone else, you need to provide the owner's contact details.
• If someone has been injured, you must share your insurance policy details if requested.
• It is not legally required to share details of your car insurance with another person if no one has been injured in the accident. However, sharing policy numbers can help to speed up the claims process.

What is the time frame for reporting an accident?

Road accidents should be reported to the police within 24 hours of the incident taking place.

This includes providing the police with details of any damage done to buildings, or parked cars.

It is also important to inform the police if you are left blocking the road as a result of a collision.

If you have bumped a parked car and it is not possible to locate the vehicle owner, it is advisable to leave a note on the car windscreen, with your contact details.

What other evidence should I provide?

When reporting an accident, it is also a good idea to make note of the following as this might act as evidence when making a claim:

• Time and date of the incident.
• Weather conditions.
• Conditions of the road.
• Details of any witnesses.
• Photos of the scene of the crash
• Photos of any injuries
• Dashcam footage can be very helpful if you have it.

How can I make a claim?

To make a claim, contact Corries Solicitors as soon after the accident occurred as possible, whilst the details of the accident are still fresh to mind. Call  Corries Solicitor on 01904 527430 or get in touch online.