Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am involved in accident ?
If you are the driver you MUST STOP and give the vehicles registration number, your name and address, and that of the owner to anyone who needs it.
In addition, you should:
- Not admit liability.
- Ensure the safety of yourself and others.
- If necessary, warn other traffic without putting yourself in danger.
- Ensure the police, fire and ambulance services are called to attend the scene if they are required.
- If you or anyone else present feels able to assist , treat any injured person or animal.
- Obtain details of any witnesses.
- Note and record the position of vehicles
What is the role of the police at a road traffic incident
- To ensure the scene is safe and prevent further accidents.
- To co-ordinate the work of the emergency services.
- To investigate the cause of the accident and take appropriate action.
- In appropriate cases record the details of the accident.
- Restore the flow of traffic.
What details of the accident will the police need ?
Some constabularies will only record details and carry out initial investigations in the following circumstances:-
- Where a person has been injured or killed.
- Where one or more drivers have failed to stop.
- Where they consider there is sufficient evidence to support a prosecution of one or more parties.
- Where a driver has obviously lost control.
- If damage is caused to a road sign or crash barrier.
- Where a vehicle defect has significantly contributed to the accident.
In all other circumstances it is likely that the police will take no further action.