RTA Claims Process

What should you do immediately following a road accident to help your compensation claim?

As soon as you are aware that you have been involved in a UK road traffic accident you should:

1. Call an ambulance and the police
If you or anyone else involved in the road traffic accident has suffered a personal injury it is important both the police and the ambulance attend at the accident scene.

2. Take details of the driver at fault for your collision
These details should include the name, address, telephone number,  as well as insurance details of the driver along with their vehicle registration and make of car.

3. Photograph the accident scene and vehicle damage as evidence for your road accident claim
If possible, take photographs of the accident scene including the final resting positions of the vehicles and any damage caused.

4.Return to the scene to obtain further evidence to support your UK road accident claim
If you don’t have a camera with you at the time of your RTA – return to the scene as soon as you can and take photographs – there may be visible skid marks on the road which could be important evidence in your claim.

5. Take names and contact details of any witnesses
Any witnesses may be needed to provide evidence which can prove your road accident claim in the event of a dispute as to how your collision occurred.

6. Attend hospital or your GP to have your injuries treated
A record will be made of any trauma you complain of, even if no treatment is necessary, so it’s important you tell the doctor about all of your injuries no matter how small.

7. Some of your accident injuries, such as whiplash, may initially go unnoticed due to shock
As soon as symptoms present themselves – however small – see yourGP. This can be quite common if you suffer a minor whiplash injury.

8. Notify your insurance company that you have been involved in a road traffic accident
Check with your insurer if your policy will pay your legal costs if you decide to make a motor accident claim.

9. Keep a diary of all your physical and psychological symptoms following your accident
Keep a detailed record of all the symptoms you suffer from along with corresponding dates. Remember any psychological symptoms including shock, sleepless nights, fear of driving can form part of your compensation claim.

10. Keep a record, as well as receipts, for all expenses you have incurred as a result of your incident
Records and receipts should include:  repair costs to your vehicle, towing expenses, storage expenses, absence from work, prescription expenses, travel expenses to and from the hospital or your GP.

These steps may be the last thing on your mind following an accident, but could prove very important.