Accidents happen, so it’s important that you know the steps to take immediately if you’re involved in an accident to keep yourself and others safe.

At the scene of an accident

1. Stop. Failing to stop at the scene of an accident involving injury or damage is an offence, so ensure you always stop at the scene.

2. Switch off your engine and turn on your hazard lights

3. Safety first – look around to ensure that all parties are safe and away from any risks at the scene of the accident

4. If anyone is injured, vehicles are in an unsafe position or the other party fails to stop, call the emergency services

5. Do not admit liability

6. Exchange details with the other party/parties, you’ll both need to pass this information to your insurers

You should collect:

• Full name and address
• Contact number and email
• Vehicle registration
• Number of passengers in the vehicle
• Make and model of the vehicle
• Other driver’s insurer name and policy number

• Detail of any damage
• Date of accident
• Time of accident
• Police officer details
• Driving conditions
• Speed.

7. Seek witnesses and ensure you take a note of their details too

8. If safe to do so, take pictures of the scene, road layout and all vehicles damaged or evidence of damage not present

9. Contact your leasing provider or motor insurer and report the accident as soon as possible. Failure to report the accident could breach terms and conditions of your policy.

Always check the policy details of your leasing provider or motor insurer so you know what you could be liable for in case of an incident.

Be prepared

You never know when the unexpected may happen, so it’s a good idea to keep a few safety items in your vehicle.

First aid kit
A basic first aid kit can come in handy when you least expect it. Items like bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes and bite or sting cream, can be useful for everyday mishaps as well as emergencies.

Reflective jacket
These are a legal requirement in many continental countries and it’s a good idea to have at least one in the car, as they will help make sure you’re seen at the side of the road.

Warning triangle
To help give other road users advanced warning of a hazard, you should make sure you have a warning triangle in your car.

Mobile phone charger
An in-car charger is a simple way of ensuring that you’re always able to make and receive calls.

Torch
Most people have torches on their mobile phones but having a separate torch helps to preserve phone battery.

Water and snacks
Stay hydrated on long journeys by keeping bottles of water to hand.