No one expects to be involved in a car accident, but knowing what to do if it happens can make a stressful situation more manageable. Whether it’s a minor scrape or a more serious collision, here’s everything you need to know, from the most common causes of accidents to handling repairs and insurance claims.
Some of the top reasons road incidents happen
Understanding why accidents occur can help you become a more cautious driver. Some of the most common causes in the UK include:
- Distracted driving – Mobile phone use, adjusting the radio, or eating while driving are some of the top reasons drivers might lose focus behind the wheel. With more than one-in-five drivers admitting to phone use while driving, it’s no surprise that numbers of traffic incidents are on the rise in this category.
- Speeding – Driving above the speed limit or too fast for road conditions can be a common issue, especially in highly congested areas around city centres.
- Tailgating – Following too closely and not leaving enough space for rapid reaction times is another major contributing factor to minor crashes and incidents.
- Poor weather conditions – Rain, fog, ice, and snow can all contribute to accidents.
- Not following signs correctly – Ignoring road signs, roundabout rules, or pedestrian crossings leads to car damage or injuries for people involved. The same goes for car parks, where some drivers don’t leave enough space for other cars or go the wrong way, increasing risk to those around them. To mitigate risk, you can purchase parking insurance with JustPark bookings for added peace of mind.
- Driving under the influence – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, and should never be risked at any cost.
Immediate steps to take following a traffic collision
If you’re involved in an accident, follow these steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal and financial interests.
1. Stop the car
It’s a legal requirement to stop after an accident, no matter how minor. Failing to do so could result in penalties, including fines, points on your licence, or even criminal charges. Once you've stopped, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. If the accident occurs at night or in poor visibility conditions, ensure your lights are on to prevent further incidents.
2. Check for Injuries
Ensure that you and any passengers are safe. If there are injuries, call 999 immediately and request emergency assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, they should still be checked by a medical professional. If you are physically able, provide aid to others involved while waiting for emergency responders, but avoid moving anyone who may have serious injuries unless they are in immediate danger.
3. Move to a safe location whenever possible
If the vehicles are blocking traffic and it's safe to do so, move them to a safer spot, such as the side of the road or a nearby layby. This helps prevent further collisions. However, if the accident is severe, leave the vehicles where they are and wait for authorities to arrive. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers and, if available, place a warning triangle at a safe distance behind your vehicle to alert approaching traffic. Always stay a safe distance from the road while waiting for assistance.
4. Exchange contact information
Swap details with any other parties involved, including:
- Full name and address
- Phone number
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance provider details
If there are witnesses, take their contact details too.
5. Take photos, videos and notes for your own evidence and potentially insurers
Document the scene thoroughly by taking pictures of:
- The damage to all vehicles involved
- The accident location, road signs, and any relevant landmarks
- Skid marks, traffic signals, and weather conditions
Make notes about what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory.
6. Report the incident
- To the police – If the accident caused injury, damage to property, or involved an uninsured driver, report it to the police within 24 hours.
- To your insurance company – Inform your insurer as soon as possible, even if you don’t intend to make a claim.
What documents you’ll need
Having the right paperwork will make the claims process smoother. Keep the following documents handy:
- Driving licence
- Vehicle registration certificate (V5C)
- Car insurance details
- MOT certificate (if applicable)
- Any breakdown cover information
Understanding the cost of repairs
The cost of repairing your car after an accident depends on the severity of the damage. Some factors include:
- Minor repairs (scratches, dents): £100 - £500
- Moderate damage (bumper replacement, panel repairs): £500 - £1,500
- Severe damage (airbags deployed, chassis damage): £2,000+
If the repair costs exceed your car’s value, the insurer may declare it a write-off and offer a settlement instead.
Dealing with insurance and claims
Your insurer will guide you through the claims process, but here are some key points to remember:
- If the accident wasn’t your fault, your insurer may recover costs from the other driver’s insurance.
- If you’re at fault, your no-claims discount may be affected unless you have protected no-claims coverage.
- Some insurers provide courtesy cars while repairs are being carried out.
Things people often forget
Many drivers overlook crucial details after an accident. Don’t forget to:
- Check for hidden damage – Some issues aren’t immediately visible, like misaligned wheels or internal damage.
- Get a repair estimate – Even if your insurer is handling it, getting an independent estimate can help.
- Monitor injuries – Some symptoms, like whiplash, may not appear immediately.
- Keep all correspondence – Store emails, letters, and claim references in one place.
Being involved in a traffic incident can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can help protect your safety, finances, and legal standing. Always drive carefully, stay alert, and be prepared with the right documents and insurance cover. If the worst happens, stay calm and follow these steps to handle the situation effectively.
