What to Do After a Car Accident in the UK
By Cheap Car Recoveries · Updated
Quick answer
After a car accident in the UK you must stop. If anyone is injured or the road is blocked dangerously, call 999. Exchange names, addresses, registration numbers and insurance details with the other driver; if you can't, or someone is injured, report it to the police within 24 hours. Take photos, tell your insurer, and arrange recovery if the car can't be driven safely.
1. Stop and make the scene safe
The law requires you to stop if you're involved in an accident. Switch off the engine, turn on your hazard lights and check whether anyone is hurt. Call 999 if anyone is injured, if a driver leaves without giving details, or if the vehicles are causing a danger to other road users.
2. Exchange details
If you can't exchange details at the scene, or someone is injured, you must report the accident to the police as soon as possible and within 24 hours.
- Your name and address, and the vehicle owner's if it's not your car.
- Vehicle registration numbers.
- Insurance details (if anyone is injured, you must produce them).
- Contact details of any witnesses.
3. Record what happened
Avoid admitting fault at the scene — leave that to the insurers.
- Photos of all vehicles, damage, number plates, the road layout and any signs.
- The time, weather and road conditions.
- Dashcam footage, if you have it — save it straight away.
4. Tell your insurer
Let your insurance company know as soon as you can, even if you don't plan to claim. They'll explain what happens next and whether they'll arrange repairs or a courtesy car.
5. Get the car recovered safely
If the car isn't safe to drive — damaged wheels or steering, leaking fluids, warning lights or broken lights — don't drive it. Accident recovery takes it to a garage, bodyshop, your home or secure storage. Cheap Car Recoveries handles accident recovery 24/7 across Birmingham and the West Midlands, with an instant quote by text.
