What You Should Do If You’re Involved in a Car Accident

Being involved in a car accident can be a shocking experience and things can become hectic at the scene.  Accidents often occur in the middle of traffic which can add to the drama and create further anxiety. The Gardai are not always able to come to the scene straight away and people can be unsure what to do. Here are a few tips to assist anyone involved in a car accident.

Dublin Car Accident Guide

What To Do After A Car Accident

Remain Calm

The first thing to do in a car accident situation is to take a breath and remain calm. There may be others in the car with you and it is important to check on their welfare. If it is a very serious accident, then an ambulance or fire brigade may have to assist you in getting out of the vehicle. However, if you are able to get out of the vehicle safely, then you may do so.

Check on the welfare of the other driver. You should not leave the scene of an accident, until you are sure that everybody is ok and the relative information has been exchanged.

Eliminate the Risk of Further Accidents

You can reduce the chances of another accident occurring by turning on your hazard lights and setting up a warning triangle.

Report it to the Gardai

It is a personal preference as to whether you should call the Gardai to let them know that an accident occurred. This depends on several factors including the severity of the accident and in the immediate, whether or not their assistance will be required.

If the situation is heated and the third party is acting in an unreasonable or aggressive manner, then it is a good idea to call the Gardai so they can take note of the relative information.

If you believe that you can establish the necessary information at the scene of the accident and converse with the other party in a reasonable manner, then you may not need to call the Gardai to the scene. Afterwards you may choose to report the matter to the Gardai.

Take Photographs

Photographs of the scene are always useful. Preferably before the cars have been moved from the accident position. It is a good idea to take several photos that show road markings and signposts and any aspects that you think will be useful in establishing liability. You should take a photograph of the other party’s insurance disc and registration.

Photographs of any vehicle damage will always be useful. Often, people take pictures of injuries or bruising sustained. These can be used later in documenting same and will assist when a medical report is being taken up.

Exchange Information

When you are exchanging information with the other driver it is important to remain calm. They may be upset by the situation. Establish if they are in need of medical assistance and reassure them that everything will be ok. Have a discussion about exchanging information. It is a good idea to take their phone number, address and insurance details. However, if they do not wish to share all of that information, at the very least, get their name, car registration and insurance details. 

Report The Accident to Your Insurance Company

You should report the matter to your own insurance company. If the accident was not your fault, they will usually tell you to contact the third party’s insurance company yourself in order to have your vehicle repaired. In order to protect your interests, it is a good idea to call Joseph McNally Solicitors at this stage.

Seek Medical Attention

When you are injured in a car accident it is important seek medical attention. You may go to hospital by ambulance from the scene or make your own way to the hospital or your GP at a later stage.

It is important to outline all of your injuries to the Doctor. Often, people focus on one main injury and neglect to mention minor issues. Your treating Doctor will want to know about any injuries that you may have. Sometimes issues arise a few days after an accident that were not immediately evident at the time. It is a good idea to document same with your GP.