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After a minor car accident: what to do and record

Stay safe, stay at the scene, record the right details and tell your insurer, even when the damage looks small.

21 items · 5 sections · car, driver, safety

Start this checklist

Right now (5)

  • Stop, put the hazards on and move out of traffic if you can
  • Check everyone for injuriesAnyone hurt: call the emergency number (911 US, 112 India and EU, 999 UK).
  • Do not leave the sceneLeaving can be an offence, even in a small crash.
  • Hit a parked car? Try to find the ownerIf you can't, leave a note with your name, address and phone number.
  • If the other driver is aggressive, stay in the car, lock the doors and call the police

Record the details (5)

  • Other driver's name, phone number and address
  • Their license, registration and insurance IDA photo is the easy way, if they agree.
  • Make, model, colour and number plate of every vehicle
  • Names and numbers of any witnesses
  • Location, time and weather

Take photos (3)

  • Damage to both cars, close up and from a distance
  • Where the cars ended up on the road, if it is safe
  • Skid marks, debris and road signs nearby

Police and report (3)

  • Call the police for any injury or serious damageNote the officers' names and badge numbers and where to get the report.
  • Check whether you must report it even if nobody cameRules differ by place. UK: tell the police within 24 hours if you did not exchange details.
  • File a report at the nearest station or online if your area allows itYour insurer will likely want it.

Afterwards (5)

  • Tell your insurer as soon as you can, even if it seems minorDetails are harder to remember later, and policies can set a time limit.
  • See a doctor if pain or stiffness shows up later
  • Write down what happened while you remember it
  • Get a repair estimate before you agree any cash settlement
  • Keep bills, and the name of everyone you speak to at the insurer

Written from www.iii.org

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