What do i do if i am involved in a car accident? 

 No one expects to be involved in an accident. But it can happen in the blink of an eye – whether it’s your fault, someone else’s or completely out of your control. Even a small bump, a serious accident, or a big crash gets adrenaline pumping and shock can set in, so things can be a bit of a blur. Whatever the circumstances, if you are involved in a car accident, there are certain steps you may want to take to stay safe, follow the law and get the car insurance claim process started. 

Introduction to Car Accidents 

Being involved in a car accident is often overwhelming, whether it’s a minor car accident or a more serious collision. In the aftermath, it’s easy to feel confused about what steps to take next. That’s why it’s important to be prepared and know exactly what to do if you are involved in a car accident. This guide answers the most common questions about handling a car accident, from how to exchange details with the parties involved to working with your insurance company through the claims process. By understanding your responsibilities and knowing what information to collect, you can protect yourself, your car, and your insurance interests after an accident. 

 Immediately after the accident 

1. Take a few deep breaths and try to remain as calm as possible – it’s normal to be shaken after an accident. 

2. Stop the car as soon as possible and turn the engine off – it’s an offence not to do so. 

3. Switch the hazard lights on. 

4. (put this bit first)Make sure to keep your vehicle out of traffic and away from oncoming traffic and oncoming vehicles to protect other road users. Consider the safety of other road users when managing the accident scene. If you’re able to and it is safe to do so, move to the side of the road or footpath, especially if your car is causing a hazard where it is. If your car is causing a hazard where it is, pull it to the side of the road if it is safe to do so.  

5. Check for injuries to yourself, your passengers, and any other injured person at the scene. 

6. If it’s safe and you are able, provide first aid before emergency services arrive. 

7. If it’s a minor collision and there are no injuries, make a note of it just in case the other people later try to claim for an injury. 

8. Don’t apologise, admit responsibility or blame the other party for the accident until you’re completely aware of what happened – this can protect you from liability if it wasn’t your fault.  

Seeking Medical Help 

After a car accident, your health and safety should always come first. Even if you feel fine or think your injuries are minor, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussion, may not show symptoms immediately but can become serious if left untreated. If anyone is injured, call emergency services right away or ask someone to take you to the hospital. Make sure to keep records of any medical treatment you receive, as this documentation will be important if you need to make an insurance claim later. When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and get checked by a medical professional after an accident. 

When should I call the Guards? 

1. Call the guards and an ambulance immediately in a serious accident, if anyone is hurt or if the road is blocked 

2. The other driver or drivers leave the scene without giving details. 

3. If you think the other driver has no insurance or is under the influence of drink or drugs. 

4. If you suspect that the other driver caused the collision deliberately. 

5. Tell the guards about the accident within 24 hours – if you don’t you may be given a fine, points on your licence, or a disqualification from driving. 

If the Guards do not attend the scene, you should take as many details/pictures as possible and report the accident at the nearest Garda station as soon as possible. 

Exchange motoring details 

1. Share your name and address with all drivers involved and any other party if the accident caused damage or injury—the law requires you to provide these necessary details. Make sure to collect relevant information from everyone present. It’s always worth while keeping a pen and paper in your car just in case your phone is damaged or the battery is dead. 

2. Exchange motor insurance information with the other driver(s), including the policy number and expiry date. Ensure you also obtain insurance information from any other party or other vehicle involved in the incident. This information should be displayed on your Insurance Disc. 

3. Try to find out if the other driver is the registered car owner of the vehicle involved. If they are not, identify who the car owner is and get that information too (for example, if it is a company car). 

4. Gather registration numbers for every vehicle involved, including any other vehicle that may have been part of the incident. This is vital as most other information can be gathered later once the registration numbers are correct. 

5. If possible, take pictures of the damage (and the vehicles involved) this will help if you forget to record information i.e. the type of vehicle and for exaggerated claims.  

What should I record at the scene of the accident? 

When documenting the accident scene, it is crucial to record all relevant details thoroughly, as this information will be important if you need to make a car accident claim or personal injury claim at a later date. 

1. The make, model, colour, and number plate of the vehicles involved in the car crash or take pictures of them. The registration number is vital as most other information can be gathered later once the registration numbers are correct. 

2. The time and date of the crash. 

3. The driving conditions, including the weather, lighting, and road quality. 

4. Name and contact details for any witnesses, and collect witness statements if possible. 

5. What sort of damage was caused to the vehicles and where – take pictures of the damage if you can, the positions of the cars involved, and pictures of the accident scene. 

6. Record any injuries sustained by drivers, passengers, or pedestrians, and identify the injured party if applicable. If no one else is involved in the accident, for example you caused damage to private property or a parked car, you should leave your details – for instance a note where the owner can see it. If you don’t do this, you could be in serious trouble. 

After gathering this information, it is important to make a report to the authorities and ensure the accident is properly reported. Gathering medical reports is also essential to support any personal injury claim. The Personal Injuries Assessment Board is responsible for assessing personal injury cases and personal injury claims, reviewing medical reports, and determining compensation. Proper documentation and evidence collected at the accident scene will be vital if you need to pursue a car accident claim or personal injury claim at a later date. 

Admitting Liability 

Stick to the facts when speaking with the other parties involved, the guards, or your insurance company, and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting liability. Admitting liability too soon can affect your insurance policy and may even invalidate your cover. If you’re unsure about what to say, consult your insurance company or a solicitor before making any statements about the accident. Remember, the claims process will determine who is responsible based on all the evidence.  

Understanding Car Insurance 

Knowing what your car insurance policy covers is essential after a car accident. If you have comprehensive car insurance, your insurance company will usually arrange for repairs to your vehicle, though you may need to pay an excess. If your cover is third-party only, you may be responsible for your own repair costs. Always check your insurance policy documents to understand your level of cover, whether your No Claims Bonus is protected, and what steps you need to take to start a claim. If you have any questions or are unsure about your policy, contact your insurance company for guidance—they are there to help you through the process. 

Notifying your car insurance provider and making a claim. 

If you have been involved in an accident, it is important to report the accident to your car insurance provider as soon as possible. Prompt reporting helps ensure your claim is processed efficiently and meets legal requirements. Even if you choose not to make a car accident claim, you still must let your car insurance provider know about the accident, as the other driver may try to make a claim without you knowing. 

When reporting the accident, avoid authorising any repairs before contacting your insurer or claims handler. Contacting your insurance company first is essential to ensure proper procedures are followed for your car accident claim. 

At its4women, our claims service is based in Ireland and we only use quality garages for repairs. 

In the case of a serious accident or personal injury cases, you may need to seek legal advice. Please note that solicitors in personal injury cases do not calculate fees as a percentage of damages or awards, as this is not permitted in contentious business. It is important to understand how legal professionals calculate fees in these situations. 

If you have to make a claim, please contact our Claims Team on the following numbers: 

Motor Claim: 01 8599700 

Windscreen Helpline: 01 8599899 

Available 24/7 for extra peace of mind 

Accidents are sometimes hard to avoid regardless of how carefully you drive. Keeping a checklist with post-accident steps in the car can help protect you from unnecessary worries and allow you to focus on working with your car insurance company to get your vehicle repaired as smoothly and as quickly as possible. 

Learn more about submitting a new claim and explore the different levels of car insurance cover we offer at its4women.  

Avoiding Common Mistakes 

After a car accident, it’s easy to make mistakes that can complicate your insurance claim or delay the process. One of the most common mistakes is failing to exchange details with all parties involved, which can make it difficult to pursue a claim. To avoid problems, always keep a record of all the evidence, including conversations with your insurance company and the other drivers. By staying organised and following the correct steps, you can help ensure a smoother claims process and protect your interests after an accident.