Been in a car accident? Describe your situation and get instant plain English guidance on your legal obligations, insurance rights and next steps — not injury claim advice.
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What you need to know
If you are involved in a road traffic accident where anyone is injured, or where damage is caused to another vehicle, property, or animal (including horses, cattle, dogs and sheep), you must stop. You must give your name, address, and vehicle registration number to anyone with a reasonable need for them, including the other driver, police, or injured parties.
If you cannot exchange details at the scene (for example because the other driver has fled or there is no other person present), you must report the accident to a police station as soon as reasonably practical, and in any case within 24 hours. Failure to stop or report is a criminal offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and can result in penalty points, a fine, or disqualification.
Most motor insurance policies require you to notify your insurer promptly after any accident, even if you do not intend to make a claim and even if the accident was not your fault. Failure to notify can invalidate your policy. Your insurer can conduct their own investigation and handle any third-party claims made against you.
If you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or untraced (hit and run) driver, you may be able to claim compensation through the Motor Insurers Bureau (MIB). The MIB operates two schemes: the Uninsured Drivers Agreement and the Untraced Drivers Agreement. You should report the accident to the police first and then make your application to the MIB at mib.org.uk.
If you disagree with your insurer's decision on liability or the settlement offered for vehicle damage, you have the right to challenge it. Write formally to your insurer stating your grounds. If unresolved, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), which is free and can overturn insurer decisions. The FOS handles around 10,000 motor insurance complaints each year.
Dashcam footage can be valuable evidence after an accident. Preserve the footage immediately — do not overwrite it. Your insurer should be told you have dashcam evidence. You can also submit relevant footage to the police, particularly where the other driver has committed a traffic offence. The other party or their insurer may also request access to your footage in any dispute over liability.
This guidance is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current figures and legislation on GOV.UK or seek professional advice for your specific situation.