What to Do After a Car Accident: Your Legal Duties and Next Steps

After a car accident, stop, make sure everyone is safe and call 999 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked. If there is damage or injury, you must give your name, address and the vehicle registration to anyone with reasonable grounds to ask. If you cannot do that at the scene, you must report it to the police within 24 hours. You must also tell your insurer, even if you do not plan to claim.

What should I do straight after an accident?

1. Stop safely. The Highway Code says you must stop if you are involved in a collision that causes damage or injury. Turn on your hazard lights and switch off the engine.

2. Check for injuries. Call 999 if anyone is hurt, if the road is blocked, or if anyone involved seems to be under the influence of drink or drugs.

3. Exchange details. Swap names, addresses, phone numbers, vehicle registrations and insurance details with the other driver. If the car is not yours, give the owner's details too.

4. Gather evidence. Take photos of the vehicles, the damage, the road layout, signs and the weather. Note the time and exact location.

5. Get witness details. Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw what happened can help your insurer.

6. Do not admit fault. Stick to the facts and let the insurers decide liability.

When do I have to report an accident to the police?

GOV.UK says that if there is damage or injury and you do not give your details at the time, you must report the accident to the police within 24 hours. You should also call the police if the other driver leaves without giving details or you think they are uninsured. For non-emergencies in South Yorkshire, you can call 101. The rules are set out on GOV.UK.

Do I need to tell my insurer?

Yes. You must tell your insurer about an accident even if you do not intend to make a claim. Most policies set a time limit for this, so check yours. Give them the details and photos you collected at the scene.

What if the other driver is uninsured or drives off?

Tell the police. Your insurer can explain what happens next, and you may be able to claim compensation if you are the victim of an uninsured or hit-and-run driver.

How do repairs work after an accident?

If you are claiming on your insurance, your insurer will usually explain how repairs are arranged and whether they need to approve the garage. Get a written estimate before work starts and keep all receipts. If the car is written off, our guide to write-off categories explains what Cat S and Cat N mean.

Common questions

Do I have to report a minor bump to the police?

Not if you exchanged details at the scene and no one was hurt. You still need to tell your insurer.

How long do I have to make a personal injury claim?

In England and Wales, the time limit for most personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident. Speak to a qualified solicitor for advice on your own situation.

Will an accident affect my car's value?

It can, especially if the repairs are recorded or the car is categorised as a write-off. Our guide to whether a car is worth less after an accident covers this.

Getting back on the road in Barnsley

If your car needs mechanical checks after a minor bump, our service centre in Barnsley, South Yorkshire can help. Call Customer Care on 01226 574321. Our labour rate is £80 per hour plus VAT. If you are thinking of replacing your car, you can browse cars in stock or sell or part exchange your current one.

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Updated October 2026.