In the event of an accident get as much on the spot information as possible. Keep a pen and paper in your car for this purpose. Take note of the names and addresses of independent witnesses before they lose interest and leave the scene. If you happen to have a camera in the car, get pictures before vehicles and property are moved. Also, make a sketch plan of the accident while the details are fresh in your mind.
- Ask the other drivers involved for their names and addresses and make a note of their car registration numbers together with the make and model.
- Ask for the name of their insurers and also, if possible, their policy number or certificate number.
- There may be injury to people or animals or damage to vehicles or property. If so, you are required to give your name and address, the name and address of the owner of the car you are driving and its registration number to anyone with reasonable grounds for wanting them.
- If anyone is injured you should produce your certificate of insurance either to a police officer or to anyone with reasonable grounds for wishing to see it. If you cannot do this at the scene you must produce it at a police station within 24 hours.
- At the scene of the accident do not discuss whose fault the accident seems to have been. If you do, you could create problems for you and your insurers in the handling of your claim. It is often not straightforward to identify fault, especially at the scene of an accident where people may be in shock about what has just happened. Leave that to the insurers or the police.
- You must tell your insurers as soon as possible - even if you don't intend to make a claim. This is a condition of your policy.
- Tell your insurers about any statement made at the scene by any of the parties.
- Complete any accident report form they give you with as much information as you can.