What to Do After a Car Accident
Statistically, as a motorist, you will be involved in at least one motor vehicle accident during the course of your driving career. These same statistics also reveal that most people simply are not well prepared to deal with the aftermath of a car accident. Most vehicle accidents are minor, perhaps a ‘scrape’ in a car park or a collision that results in only property damage, but whatever the circumstances, you need to know what to do and what not to do.
Immediately After an Accident
1. Take a deep breath and stay calm.
2. Make sure that you and the other people involved are okay.
3. Keep your vehicle where it is and ask all other motorists involved to keep their vehicles in the same position also.
4. Call the gardai.
5. Gather as much information as you can:
- Registration numbers of all vehicles. This is vital as most other information can be gathered later once the registration numbers are correct
- Insurance details for all vehicles
- Names, addresses and phone numbers for all drivers
- Names and contact details for any witnesses who saw the collision or came on the immediate aftermath
- Names, station and contact details for the attending gardai
- Photos of the position of and damage to each vehicle involved in the collision
6. Do the right thing – be nice to the other parties.
DON'T
1. Don't admit liability at the scene of the accident.
2. Don't leave the scene of the accident until particulars have been exchanged.
3. Don't take the other motorist at their word.
Making A Claim
If you have to make a claim you will have to contact the following number:
- Phone from Ireland: 01 8599700
Lines are open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.
Alex Todd Brand Manager at Its4women commented "It's important that you take a look at your insurance policy so you will know what protections are there for you, particularly if the other person doesn't have insurance."
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