Not stopping at the scene of an accident, if you think the accident has caused injury or damage to property is against the law. Ensure that you do all that you can to make the scene safe. Everyone should switch off their engines, turn on hazard lights and make sure oncoming traffic is warned of the accident scene. Dial 999 if someone is injured, or if anyone leaves the scene without giving their details. If you believe that the accident scene may be a hazard to other drivers, call 999.
Stay calm. Don’t admit blame no matter how clear-cut you may think the cause of the accident is. Use a notepad to sketch out how the accident happened whilst you are still at the scene. Note down street names, vehicle locations and direction of travel, skid marks, collision points and any damage. Back this up with photos, most mobile phones have cameras these days.
By law, all drivers involved in the accident must exchange contact details with each other. These details include names, addresses, phone numbers and insurance details. Get the names and addresses of any witnesses, including passengers in the other vehicles involved.
Record any other details you think may be of importance e.g. if you think the driver of the other vehicle has been drinking or using a mobile phone note this down. Make a note of any weather conditions that may have contributed to the accident, e.g. rain or fog. If there is damage to the road surface or cars parked in such away as to contribute to the accident note this down too.
If you hit a farm animal or dog you must report that incident to the police. If you hit a wild animal or cat you do not have to report it, as long as the animal is not injured or suffering. Always stop to check the condition of the animal, but stop in a safe place and walk back to find the animal if you need to.
You must notify your insurance company immediately of any collision you are involved in, regardless of whether a claim will be necessary. Send your insurer all the notes of the incident you took from the scene.
Looking to find the best offer on your used car for sale?, then visit us to find the best cash price on buy my car deals.
Tags: auto insurance, automobiles, car accident, Car Finance, car sales, new cars, used cars, vehicles