Car claims

Car accident: what to do and what to gather

What to gather after a crash, so your claim isn't held up.

If anyone is hurt or in danger, call 000 first. Everything else can wait.

Do this first

1. Make sure everyone is safe and call 000 if anyone is hurt Move vehicles out of traffic only if it's safe to do so, and turn your hazard lights on.
2. Photograph the scene before cars are moved, if it's safe Both vehicles and plates, all the damage, the road, signs and the weather.
3. Swap details with the other driver Name, phone, address, registration and insurer.
4. Don't admit fault or agree to pay for anything Stick to the facts. Your insurer works out who's responsible.

Who to tell

• The police: Report it if anyone is hurt, the road is blocked, or the other driver leaves or won't give details. Keep the report number.
• Your insurer: Most policies ask you to tell them promptly. Start your claim as soon as you can.

What to gather

• Photos of the damage to your car. Shows what was damaged and how badly.
• Photos of the scene. Positions, road layout and conditions help work out what happened.
• The other driver's name, phone, licence details, registration and insurer. Needed to recover costs from the at-fault party.
• Date, time and exact location. Every claim starts with this.
• Police report or event number. Expected where police were called.
• Names and phone numbers of witnesses. A neutral account can settle a disagreement.
• Dashcam or CCTV footage. The clearest evidence there is.
• A repair quote, if you already have one. Your insurer may arrange its own, but a quote helps.
• Receipts for towing or a hire car. If your policy covers them and you're claiming them.

Things that catch people out

• Admitting fault at the scene, even politely, can complicate things. Describe what happened and leave blame to the insurers.
• Agreeing a cash settlement with the other driver before talking to your insurer can affect your claim.
• Don't authorise major repairs before your insurer agrees, other than essential towing or safety work.

General guidance only. It isn't your insurer's requirements or financial advice. Always check your policy documents and your insurer's instructions.