Keeping a calm head after a vehicle accident saves you a world of trouble in the long run

If the unfortunate strikes and you happen to be involved in a vehicle accident, following these steps will help you minimise the damage and ensure your insurance claim is trouble-free:

1. Switch off all engines and switch on hazard lights.
2. Telephone the emergency services on 999, or 112 from your mobile.
3. Exchange details with the other people involved if applicable, as calmly as possible. It’s a legal requirement to provide names along with insurance details. If somehow you don’t exchange details at the scene, you must report your car accident in person at a Police Station or to a Police Officer within 24 hours. You'll need to produce your Certificate of Insurance.
4. Never accept liability at the scene of an accident by saying its your fault. Your insurer will look at who is at fault when they are handling your case.
5. It’s important to gather as much information as possible so that your insurance company can handle your case effectively.
  • Use your mobile or a camera to take photos.
  • Make a note of the positions of the vehicles, weather conditions, car registrations and the details of any witnesses.
  • Factors such as whether the other party was using headlights and indicators, the condition of the road and estimated speed of the vehicles involved also play a large part in determining the causes of the accident.
  • If you’re prevented from recording all relevant details because you’re injured or in a state of shock, there is still information you can gather by returning to the scene of the accident as soon as possible.
6. If circumstances allow, clear the vehicles out of the way to minimise obstruction to traffic and risk of further collision.
7. Call us as soon as possible on 0800 040 7019, whether you intend to make a claim or not, so that it’s ready if the other party makes contact. It’s also crucial to tell us within the time period defined in your policy to guarantee your cover validity.

For peace of mind that you're covered should the unfortunate happen. Swinton can find you Commercial Vehicle Insurance that fits you best – get a fuss-free online quote.

Click here
Get a van quote now