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What to do after a car accident

It’s uncommon for people to know the exact steps to take after a car accident, particularly when it wasn’t their fault. Taking the right actions is crucial for ensuring everyone’s safety and for successfully processing a non-fault claim later on.

Here’s what you should do immediately after an accident?

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Here’s how to exchange information at the scene of the accident?

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Here’s how to arrange for roadside accident recovery:

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Here’s a guide on who to contact first after an accident?

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We'll show you the way.

step-by-step

If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights.

Step 1

Directly after the incident, you should

Step 2

When contacting emergency services after an accident

Step 3

When exchanging details with the other driver after an accident

Step 4

Here’s a comprehensive list of information

Step 5

guide for arranging recovery at the roadside

Step 6

Ensure Safety and Document the Scene

If you need assistance regarding a non-fault accident, please contact us at 0778 612 8786

Elite Accident Management nomous. Dependable. Advocating for you.

Contact us first after experiencing a non-fault accident.

We are a non-fault specialist accident management company. We provide practical support and advice, while managing all aspects related to the accident, from roadside recovery to your vehicle’s repairs. Our purpose is to relieve the disruption of a non-fault accident to your daily life.
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Advantages of choosing us over your insurer:

  • No upfront policy excess
  • An equivalent replacement vehicle
  • Assigned claims specialist
  • Preservation of your no claims bonus
  • BSI Kitemark-certified repair network

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Step 1

Immediate steps to take

following the car accident

Stop the vehicle and turn off the engine

Your initial action should be to safely bring the vehicle to a stop, if it's not already stationary. Ensure to turn off the engine.

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Check for any injuries

Assess yourself, your passengers, and others involved for any injuries. Contact emergency services if anyone is injured.

Learn more

Remain composed

At this juncture, emotions may be heightened. Take a moment to stay composed.

Learn more

Avoid apologizing or admitting fault

Even a polite gesture can sometimes be misconstrued as an admission of fault. Be courteous but refrain from apologizing or admitting fault.

Learn more
Step 2

Understanding the appropriate time to

time to law enforcement

It's advisable that regardless of the situation, law enforcement is informed of a car accident collision.

A common misconception when people are unsure about what to do after a car accident is determining how and when to involve the police.

The need to involve law enforcement immediately or after leaving the scene of the collision depends on the specific circumstances of the situation.

When to dial emergency services

In specific circumstances following a non-fault accident, contacting emergency services may be necessary. These include:

  • Ensuring safety, providing medical assistance, or securing the scene
  • Assisting in the investigation of the collision
  • Suspecting that the collision was deliberate
  • Encountering an uninsured driver
  • Dealing with a driver under the influence
  • Responding to a hit-and-run incident

    • When 999 is unnecessary

    If 999 isn't needed after the collision, the recommended action is to inform your local police station within 24 hours. You can do this by:

  • Reporting the incident online
  • Visiting your local station to report the collision
  • Calling 101 following the car accident

    • Step 3

    Exchanging information at the

    scene of the accident

    Once the initial shock has settled and everyone is secure, it is a legal obligation for both drivers to exchange information. This is critical for a successful non-fault claim. These details must encompass the following:

     

    Exchanging drivers' information

  • Driver’s full name
  • Driver’s home address
  • Driver’s telephone number(s)
  • Driver’s insurance company
  • Vehicle registration number
  • Vehicle’s registered owner's information (if different from the driver)

    • Learn more

    Passenger and witness information

    It's not always sufficient to exchange details solely with the other driver. Make sure to exchange all information with any passengers—both from your own vehicle and crucially from the third-party vehicle. Witnesses are crucial to building your claim after leaving the accident scene. If there's a witness present, be sure to gather their full details.

    Learn more

    Step 4

    Obtaining roadside

    accident recovery

     
    Documenting comprehensive details of an accident is vital for gathering evidence to clearly show you were not responsible. To be ready for any possible future incidents, it is suggested to keep a small notebook in your car at all times.
     

    Details of third-party vehicles

    Record all details of third-party vehicles involved, such as the make, model, color, year, and registration plate.

    Note the exact time and date of the accident.

    It's crucial to record the exact time and date of the accident, as well as any specific timing of events leading up to the incident.

    Details of third-party vehicles

    Record all details of third-party vehicles involved, such as the make, model, color, year, and registration plate.

    Document all injuries, no matter how minor.

    If anyone is injured, be sure to document this. Additionally, if there are no injuries, make a note of that as well.

    Take photos of the accident scene.

    Besides documenting the vehicles, capture photographs and videos of the accident scene and the surrounding area.

    Record complete statements from witnesses.

    Request witnesses to provide a detailed report of the incident. Have them sign and date the report and collect their contact information.

    Capture photographs of the surrounding conditions at the scene.

    Make sure to thoroughly capture the driving conditions, including lighting, surface quality, and weather.

    Create a sketch depicting the circumstances.

    If feasible, create a visual diagram illustrating how the accident occurred. Discuss this with the other driver and request their signature.

    Create a video commentary detailing the incident.

    Creating a "commentary video" where you walk around and explain what happened while the details are fresh in your mind is an excellent idea.

    Utilize CCTV cameras or dashcams to record the incident.

    Survey the area for buildings equipped with CCTV cameras. Inquire about other vehicles that might have witnessed the accident and have dashcam footage available.

    Step 5

    Arranging for roadside

    accident recovery.

    After a car accident, it’s crucial to assess for visible damage that may indicate the need for recovery. However, sometimes damage isn’t immediately obvious.

    Operating an unsafe vehicle is not only hazardous but also illegal in the UK. If you’re uncertain about the car’s roadworthiness, avoid driving it to prevent additional risks or legal issues. When contemplating accident recovery, here are the key considerations:

    Is my vehicle in need of recovery?

    The first step in deciding whether recovery is necessary is to ensure your vehicle passes a 'roadworthy vehicle check.'

    Learn more

    Whom should I reach out to for assistance with vehicle recovery?

    Avoid contacting your insurance provider or paying for private recovery services. Instead, consider working with an accident management company at no cost to you.

    Explore options for recovery after a non-fault accident>

    Step 6

    Initiating a non-fault claim

    following the accident

    Many people instinctively contact their insurance after an accident, either to file a claim or seek guidance, since most insurers have specific lines for this purpose.

    Yet, if you’re not responsible for the accident, going through your insurer directly could potentially put you at a disadvantage. Accident management companies provide a valuable alternative by managing claims independently, ensuring that non-fault drivers receive their entitled compensation with minimal disruption.

    Whom should you contact initially?

    If you're not responsible for the accident, there's a preferable option. However, the decision of whom to contact first is crucial to ensure your eligibility.

    Learn more

    Initiating the non-fault claimInitiating the non-fault claim

    Partnering with someone who understands the steps to take after a car accident is crucial. Your assigned claims handler will commence the claim process on your behalf.

    Learn more

    Claims Workflow

    Understand the next steps after a car accident and navigate the non-fault claims process effortlessly with Elite Accident Management.

    Explore Non-Fault Accident Solutions >

    Initiate Your Non-Fault Claim Today

    Begin a seamless journey with our expert assistance. We’ll guide you through the intricacies, ensuring a straightforward and swift resolution.

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    Bringing the vehicle to a safe stop and turning off the engine.

    After a car accident, it’s natural to experience a range of emotions and feel somewhat overwhelmed. Many people find themselves in the same situation. Uncertain about the immediate steps? That’s a common sentiment. Firstly, if you haven’t already, safely bring your vehicle to a stop. Even if the accident appears minor, it’s prudent to halt. Take a moment to gather your thoughts. Confirm the well-being of yourself and any passengers. Once everyone’s safety is assured, turn off the car’s engine. Then, activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the incident.

    Examine potential injuries more thoroughly for yourself, passengers, and anyone else involved.

    Above all, immediately check yourself, passengers, and others involved for any potential injuries. If you observe any injuries, no matter how minor they appear, your primary focus should be to contact emergency services and request an ambulance. Clearly communicate that you've been in a car accident and provide accurate details of your location.
    Remember, emergency responders are trained to assist in such situations. If you're unsure about what steps to take next, do not hesitate to contact them.
    Quick Tip: If you're having difficulty pinpointing your exact location and there are no witnesses or nearby drivers to assist, consider using the 'what3words' website or app.
    'what3words' is an innovative location tool that divides the world into 3m x 3m squares and assigns each square a unique three-word identifier. Many emergency responders rely on this system to accurately locate incidents during emergencies. By using this tool, you can provide precise location information to the emergency team.
    However, if it appears there are no injuries at the scene, it's prudent to make a note of this. This information can be crucial during the claims process, particularly in cases involving disputes or claims related to injuries later on.
    Nevertheless, if you have any doubts about potential injuries, it's advisable to prioritize safety and contact emergency services regardless. Safety is always paramount.

    Remain composed while maintaining a calm and collected demeanor.

    In the immediate aftermath of an accident, the initial shock may still be settling in. You’re not alone in this. Emotions are likely to be heightened for: Every driver involved. All passengers. Witnesses. Bystanders. Even onlookers in nearby vehicles. Remember, many people, including yourself, may feel uncertain about the correct steps to take after an accident. This uncertainty can increase feelings of anxiety and stress. Taking a moment to center yourself can make a significant difference. Try taking a few deep breaths and focus on calming your nerves. Maintaining composure is crucial, not just for your own well-being but also for effective communication and gathering vital information. It’s in everyone’s best interest to avoid escalating tensions. Do your part to promote a calm atmosphere and encourage others to remain composed as well.

    Avoid apologizing or acknowledging any fault for the accident.

    It’s understandable to feel compelled to apologize after an accident, even if you're uncertain about what transpired. However, it's advisable to refrain from apologizing. Sometimes, apologies are offered reflexively or due to shock, regardless of fault. Yet, it's important to exercise caution: an apology could be misconstrued as an admission of guilt, potentially complicating matters with insurance. If the other driver apologizes or makes any remarks about the accident, it’s prudent to recall their statements and the timing. This information can be valuable later on. It’s also wise to have a witness present who observed the incident. They may not be familiar with accident protocols, but their recollection of events can provide clarity if necessary. If there are concerns about potential injuries, always prioritize seeking assistance. Ultimately, ensuring everyone's safety is paramount.

    Swapping Information

    After the initial shock has subsided and you've ensured everyone is okay, UK law mandates that both drivers exchange their information. You will need to share the following:

  • Full Name
  • Home Address
  • Telephone Number(s)
  • Vehicle Registration Number
  • Details of the vehicle’s registered owner (if different from the driver)
    • It's also prudent to note down the other driver’s insurance company name. This can be useful if you encounter difficulty contacting the driver later on. Remember to both collect the other driver’s information and provide your own. It’s an offence not to share your details after a car accident. Failure to do so could not only result in legal trouble but might also impact any accident claim you file later. For a seamless claims process, keep the details you've gathered safe. If possible, save them electronically by emailing yourself or storing them in cloud storage. While having paper and pen for things like sketches is useful (refer to our section on what information to note), remember that paper can easily be lost or damaged. Therefore, it's best to have a backup.

    No passengers or witnesses present?

    If there are no witnesses present, consider asking any passers-by if they are willing to act as witnesses from this point onward. Their presence can assist in gathering evidence to determine fault and provide accurate, detailed accounts of the accident.

    Vehicle Roadworthiness Checklist

    Here’s a checklist to help determine if a vehicle is roadworthy or if it might require recovery in the UK:
    1.Tyres and Wheels:
    • All tyres inflated with no visible punctures or bulges.
    • Tread depth meets the legal minimum of 1.6mm across the middle three-quarters of the breadth of the tyre and around the entire circumference.
    • No significant damage to the wheels.
    2.Brakes:
    • Brakes are responsive and not spongy.
    • No unusual noises or grinding when brakes are applied.
    • Handbrake engages and holds the car.
    3.Lights:
    • Headlights (both main and dipped) are operational.
    • Brake lights illuminate when brakes are applied.
    • Indicators flash and are visible.
    • Tail lights and number plate lights work.
    4.Fluid Leaks:
    • No noticeable fluid patches or drips under the vehicle.
    • Brake fluid, coolant, and engine oil levels are within recommended levels.
    5.Windows and Mirrors:
    • Windscreen and windows are clear with no significant cracks.
    • Wing mirrors and rear-view mirror are correctly positioned and undamaged.
    6.Steering:
    • Steering wheel turns smoothly without resistance.
    • No unusual noises when turning the wheel.
    7.Exhaust:
    • No excessive smoke or unusual sounds.
    • Exhaust is securely attached.
    8.Vehicle Structure:
    • No parts dragging or hanging off the vehicle.
    • Doors close securely and lock properly.

    If any of these items are not in proper working order, it may indicate that your vehicle isn’t roadworthy. If in doubt, it’s safer to request recovery or professional assistance rather than risk driving a potentially unsafe vehicle.

    Note: This checklist serves as a basic guide and doesn’t replace regular vehicle maintenance checks or professional assessments. For breakdowns or accidents, keep emergency essentials in your car.

    Whom to contact first after a non-fault accident?

    When an accident occurs, many individuals immediately contact their insurance company. Your insurer typically has dedicated claims helplines and can offer advice. However, if the accident was not your fault, contacting your insurer directly may not be the most advantageous choice.

    1. Why not contact your insurer directly?

    • Your premiums could rise.
    • You'll be required to pay your policy excess.
    • It might impact your no-claims discount.
    • They may use non-genuine parts for repairs to save costs.
    • You might receive a basic courtesy car for a limited period.
    • Their valuation of your vehicle in a total loss scenario might not be accurate.
    • They may end up referring you to an accident management company and earn a fee for it.

    2. Why Auto Claims Assist is the superior alternative:

    • We're rated EXCELLENT on Trustpilot.
    • Regulated by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority).
    • You'll have a dedicated, personal claims handler.
    • Your no-claims bonus remains unaffected.
    • We provide a comparable replacement vehicle for the entire duration your vehicle is out of commission.
    • We offer 24/7 nationwide recovery and secure storage.
    • Our BSI Kitemark accredited engineers use only new manufacturer-approved parts and paint.
    • No out-of-pocket expenses for you.
    • No excess to pay for making a claim.

    Discover more about Auto Claims Assist versus standard insurance options.

    Initiating a non-fault accident claim with Auto Claims Assist

    Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, and managing the aftermath may seem daunting. That’s where our expertise comes in.

    To start a claim with Auto Claims Assist, you have several convenient options:

    • Phone: Reach out to us at 0330 128 1407. Our dedicated new claims advisors are on standby to gather the details of your accident and can get your claim started over the phone. They are also available to answer any questions or address any concerns you may have.
    • Online: Fill out our non-fault claim form with the specifics of your accident. After submission, a member of our new claims team will quickly get in touch with you to initiate the claims process.

    What sets Auto Claims Assist apart?

    • Expertise: Our team brings extensive experience in accident management. From highly trained call handlers to specialists with profound industry insights, we’re equipped to support you every step of the way.
    • Rated Excellent: Our dedication to quality service is reflected in our customer feedback. We consistently receive EXCELLENT ratings on Trustpilot.
    • Investment in People: We believe in investing in our team, resulting in a high staff retention rate. This commitment ensures that you receive top-notch service from a knowledgeable and motivated team.
    • Clear Communication: With Auto Claims Assist, you’ll have a dedicated claims handler who will understand your case thoroughly and keep you informed throughout the process.

    The bottom line? You won’t have to worry about the next steps. We’ll provide guidance and keep you updated, ensuring your current situation is managed with care and that you’re well-prepared for any future incidents.