Shall we let you into a little confession?
You are not alone if you are unsure about what to do in the event of an accident.
The reality is that whether you are a veteran driver, or brand new to driving – experiencing a car accident has the ability to really shake you up, and everybody else involved.
As scary as it may be, it is incredibly important to follow our steps, and remember which key details you should take down if you are ever in this situation.
How should I react after an accident?
So, chances are, that you are not a robot?
Which means that you will be emotionally affected by having a car crash, or witnessing one.
Accidents are very uncommon occurrences to most drivers – sure, you may see cars pulled over, exchanging details on the roadside, after an accident – but it’s different when you are involved.
So it’s only natural that you aren’t prepared for how to react, or what you should be doing in this situation.
But, we want to help you out. Knowing what to do, which information to collect, and how to react in the event of an accident is very important. So take a look at our recommended steps:
- Stop somewhere safe, alert others with your hazard lights or a warning triangle, and check that everybody is ok – ring the emergency services if needed.
- Take details of everybody involved – even the passengers and witnesses of the accident. This means taking down names and phone numbers, along with the registration of the car(s) involved.
- Record all details you can remember whilst they are fresh in your mind. Note down the location, talk to witnesses, and take photos, if you can do so safely.
- Pick up your phone and call your insurance provider. If you are a Drive Like A Girl customer, then save our number 0333 103 8002 and call us as soon as you can. All accidents will need to be reported.
Who would you call after an accident?
Above all else, we would urge you need to ring the emergency services (call 999), or arrange for somebody else to, if you or anybody else has suffered an injury.
But, if you check with everybody involved and realise that nobody is injured, then there is no need to call for an Ambulance.
So, who should you call after checking that?
Your insurance company.
As soon as it is safe to do so, call us on 0333 103 8002 24 hours a day. We can talk you through the process and help you figure out what to do next.
Informing your insurer straight away could speed up your claims, and by reporting every incident, no matter how small, it can also help protect you against fraud – so do not wait a long period to call, do it as soon as possible.
Once you have done this, by all means, call your friends, family, even your pet dog to get the support you need after having an accident.
What should I do if the other driver is uninsured?
You pay your insurance every month, or every year, to remain on the road – but there will always be some people out there who refuse to follow the law.
But, try not to let it worry you – it’s just another great reason to contact us as soon as you can after being involved in an accident.
Although, if the other driver refuses to give you their details, or denies that they have car insurance, it is best practice to call the police immediately (Call 999).
If you can (safely), try to note their registration and get the driver’s name – but, if he/she becomes confrontational, take a step back, get back into your car and wait for the police to arrive.
Driving without insurance is against the law, but so is failing to exchange insurance details at the scene of an accident.
How to deal with a confrontational driver?
Whether it was your fault or not, you may occasionally get a driver who is highly confrontational.
We’ve all experienced people with heightened road rage – unfortunately.
So, what should you do?
- Do not argue
The accident may not be your fault, but remain calm and avoid arguing with the other driver. Follow our steps set out in this guide and remain calm, and remember not to admit to guilt.
- Ring the police (if necessary)
If you have asked for details, but keep getting a flurry of insults instead, it may be best for you to inform the driver you are going to call the police – they will hopefully help you resolve the issue.Wait in your car until they arrive and try to have limited contact with the other driver, if possible. - Do not antagonise the other driver
You may be tempted to talk through the situation with the other driver, but if they keep getting angry, try to limit your contact where possible.Unfortunately, road rage is high amongst some drivers, but keep cool, calm, and collected. This will hopefully help make the situation more pleasant and avoid any additional drama.