What to do after an accident? The right order of steps

Take a breath. An accident is a shock, but panic helps no one. Get an overview: are you injured? Is anyone else injured? Is the accident scene safe?

Hazard lights on. Put on your safety vest (in the car, before you get out). Set up the warning triangle: 50 metres in built-up areas, 100 metres on country roads, 150–200 metres on the motorway behind the accident scene.

If you’re on the motorway: go behind the crash barrier. Don’t linger at the accident scene.

If someone is injured: call the emergency number 112 immediately. Say where you are, what happened and how many people are injured.

Give first aid if you can. But: don’t put yourself in danger. If the accident scene is too dangerous, wait for the emergency services.

Mandatory: if there are injuries, in the case of major property damage (from around 1,000 euros), if the other party leaves or leaves no details, if oil or fuel is leaking.

Optional but sensible: if there’s uncertainty about how it happened, if the other party becomes aggressive, if you feel unsure.

Take photos: of both vehicles, of the accident scene, of skid marks, of the damage. The more, the better. The insurer will ask for them.

Note down: the number plate, name and insurer of the other party. If there are witnesses: note their contact details too.

Exchange with the other party: name, address, insurer, number plate. Don’t sign anything you don’t understand. Don’t admit fault — not even out of politeness.

If your vehicle is no longer roadworthy, you have to have it towed. Call us: 0172 7776606. We’ll be with you in about 30 minutes.

The insurer usually covers the costs — either your own (comprehensive cover) or the other party’s (third-party liability). Keep the invoice.