Being involved in an accident can be very stressful. Weather it’s a minor bump or major collision these 4 detailed steps below will bring structure and clarity to a chaotic and stressful situation.
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
- Your body’s adrenaline ‘fight or flight’ response will kick in and may even mask the pain of any injuries. It is important to try to remain calm.
- Switch on hazard lights immediately. If the vehicle is in a dangerous position and cannot be moved, leave it and move behind a safety barrier.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself, your passengers, and the other party for any physical distress.
- Call 999: If there are injuries or if the road is blocked, contact emergency services immediately.
2. Keep communication simple and factual
- Stick strictly to the facts of what happened. When speaking to the driver, remain calm and composed.
- Avoid Admitting Liability: Never apologize or admit fault at the scene, as adrenaline can make you feel responsible for things that weren’t your fault.
3. Gather Information
- Secure Witness Data: Before people leave the scene, get the names and contact numbers of anyone who saw the incident.
- You might want to use your mobile phone to type in details or take photographs as quickly as possible (especially before vehicles are moved to clear the road).
- Take photos of both vehicles, road markings, traffic signs, and any debris.
- Exchange the “Vital Three”: Ensure you get the other driver’s full name, registration number, and insurance policy details.
- Environmental Notes: Record the weather, road conditions, and the exact time of the incident.
- Look for dash cams and mounted traffic cameras that can help your case as evidence.
4. Stress-Free Recovery & Accident Management Services from CRASH Services
- Contact CRASH Services First: Instead of dealing with multiple insurers and garages, call 028 9066 0244.
- Rapid Recovery: CRASH aims to have a professional recovery vehicle with you within 60 minutes anywhere in NI or ROI.
- Free End-to-End Accident Management: Let the CRASH experts handle the repair assessment, replacement car, and legal claims so you can focus on getting your life back to normal.
- CRASH Services is a free accident management service as we recover all the costs from the at fault insurer. Leaving you stress free and not out of pocket.
