What to do after a car accident?
Nobody starts their journey thinking they’re going to be in an accident. If that does happen, it’s important to know what to do.
1. Stop. It’s a legal requirement and you should give yourself a moment to take some slow, deep, calm breaths.
2. After giving yourself a moment, make sure you switch off your engine and turn on your hazard lights.
3. Check that everyone involved is safe and for any potential hazards.
4. If necessary, call the emergency services.
5. To make sure that the proper insurance measures can be taken, do not admit liability.
6. Speak to the other people involved in the accident.
You should collect the following details of all other drivers involved:
- 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
- Details about any damages
- Date of accident
- Time of accident
- Police officer details and incident number
- Driving conditions
- The speeds all drivers were travelling at.
7. If there were any witnesses, get their details too. Any dash camera footage can be helpful too.
8. If it is safe to do so, get photographic evidence 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.
Zenith emergency contact
Our dedicated driver services team are here to support you in the event of an accident.
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 stocked with bandages, plasters, antiseptic wipes and bite or sting cream, can be useful for everyday mishaps as well as emergencies.
Reflective jacket
This will keep you visible in an emergency and is actually a legal requirement in many European countries.
Warning triangle
This is a triangle made of reflective materials that will help alert other drivers of any hazards.
Mobile phone charger
It’s important to be able to reach your emergency contacts or the emergency services.
Torch
It’s best not to drain your phone’s battery in an emergency.
Water and snacks
Make sure that your blood sugar doesn’t drop and to stay hydrated.