What to do after a road traffic accident

Put safety and medical needs first

Move to a safe place if you can do so without creating further danger. Call the emergency services where anyone is seriously injured, the road is blocked or there is an immediate risk to others.

Seek appropriate medical attention. This is important for your wellbeing and can also create an accurate record of symptoms and treatment. Do not exaggerate or play down what you are experiencing.

Exchange and record useful details

Where it is safe and appropriate, gather factual information at the scene. Useful details may include:

• Names, addresses, telephone numbers and insurance details
• Vehicle registrations, makes and models
• Photographs of the vehicles, road layout, signs and relevant conditions
• Names and contact details for independent witnesses
• The location, time, weather and direction each person was travelling

Report and notify where required

UK rules require some road accidents to be reported to the police. GOV.UK explains when this applies and what information should be exchanged. A hit-and-run should be reported immediately.

Notify your insurer even if you do not intend to claim for vehicle damage. Keep claim references and copies of relevant correspondence, but avoid speculating about responsibility when the facts are still unclear.

Keep a simple record afterwards

Retain appointment details, treatment information, receipts, travel costs and evidence of any time away from work. A brief factual diary can help explain changing symptoms and practical difficulties over time.

Do not wait for a perfect evidence bundle before asking for advice. Legal time limits can apply, and contacting a solicitor does not itself stop time running.