The minutes after a car accident are stressful and confusing. Knowing the right steps helps you stay safe, protect yourself legally, and get moving again. Here’s a clear, calm checklist.

1. Stop and check for injuries

Stop the car – it’s a legal requirement after any accident. Switch off the engine, put your hazard lights on, and check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 straight away. Also call the police if the road is blocked or the other driver leaves without giving details.

2. Get to safety

If you’re on a busy road or motorway, get everyone out on the left-hand side and behind the barrier if it’s safe to do so. Don’t stand in live traffic. On a motorway, follow the same safety steps as any motorway breakdown.

3. Exchange details

By law you must give your name, address and vehicle registration to anyone involved. Collect the same from the other driver, plus:

Their insurance details if possible
The make, model and registration of their vehicle
The names and contact details of any witnesses

4. Gather evidence

If it’s safe, take photos on your phone: the position of the vehicles, the damage to both cars, the road layout, any skid marks and the wider scene. This protects you if there’s a dispute later. Make a note of the time, date and weather.

5. Don’t admit fault at the scene

It’s natural to apologise, but try not to accept blame at the roadside – fault is for the insurers to determine once all the facts are in. Stick to exchanging details and gathering evidence.

6. Recover your vehicle

If your car isn’t safe or legal to drive – fluid leaks, damaged lights, wheel or steering damage, or anything that doesn’t feel right – don’t risk driving it. Call for accident recovery. K9 Recovery provides 24/7 collision recovery across the UK, moving damaged and immobile vehicles safely to your home, garage or an approved repairer.

7. Report it

Tell your insurer as soon as you can, even if you don’t intend to claim – most policies require it. If the police need to be involved and weren’t at the scene, report it within 24 hours.

After an accident, we’re here

Once you’re safe and details are exchanged, let us take the worry of the vehicle off your hands. We’ll recover it carefully and get it where it needs to go.

Had an accident? Once you’re safe, call 07301 118118 – 24/7 accident recovery, nationwide.