If you are reading this and have just been involved in a road traffic accident, here is a list of Urgent Things to Do After an RTA.
Stop when it’s OK to do so
It is an offence to flee the scene of an accident unless you have been formally instructed or requested by a police officer, fire department, medical professional, tow truck driver or emergency services.
Make Yourself Secure
Turn off your car’s ignition. Put on your hazard lights and a HizVis suit if it’s dark outside.
Make Others Aware
Is there a danger to others in the area? Only use a hazard triangle if it is reasonably safe to do so.
Is the Accident Serious?
If there are injuries, the road is blocked, or someone’s safety is at risk, contact the emergency services.
Exchange Details
If there are no injuries and the automobiles can be driven, you may exchange your vehicle for a new one. Share all of your contact information with everyone else involved. (see the list below)
- Record the Scene & Details – Take photographs and video on your phone to preserve a record of the catastrophe.
- If you require independent legal assistance, vehicle recovery, a replacement hire or wish to talk through what to do next you can call Wafer Phillips Solicitors
- If you don’t need help, tell your insurance company.
What should I take notes on at the accident location?
- The make, model, colour, and number plate of the vehicles involved in the accident or take pictures of them.
- The time and date of the accident.
- The weather, lighting, and road quality (such as road markings, whether it’s wet or muddy, and the repair of the surface) are all considerations.
- Please describe what sort of damage was done to the vehicles and where it was – nearside front wing and door (nearly side is the left side of your car, driverside is the right).
- The dangers of a car accident have not changed; if you’re involved in one, you’ll be going to the emergency room. Be sure your policy covers injuries to drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
- Witnesses’ names and contact information.
- Take photographs of the scene, the positions of the vehicles involved, and any damage to the cars with your phone.
If you were involved in an accident and no one else was harmed, for example, if you damaged private property or a parked vehicle, you should notify the owner.
If you are observed by a witness or a CCTV camera, and your vehicle number is recorded, but you immediately depart, you may be in trouble since failing to notify authorities when additional parties or other vehicles are involved is illegal. If you’ve recently been involved in an RTA and need legal assistance, please feel free to get involved with Wafer Phillips Solicitors who will be able to advise you further.
