Road Traffic Collisions: What Do I Do Next?

A step-by-step guide to help you understand what to do when involved in a Road Traffic Collision (RTC)

At Kempton Redman Law, we provide clear advice to help you in the aftermath of a collision. Our Senior Associate, Laura Allen LL.B has extensive experience handling claims involving minor injuries through to serious, life-changing collisions which can lead to profound and lasting physical, psychological and financial impacts that fundamentally alter a person's life and that of their family. Laura has provided a step by step guide with “top tips” throughout to assist you following a collision.

Your duties by law

As a Solicitor for over a decade, road traffic collisions are one of the most traumatic experiences anyone will experience in their lifetime and this can affect your judgement in the aftermath. Here are my top tips on what to do next: 

1.     Stop – it is a legal requirement to stop at the scene. Failing to stop can lead to a number of road traffic offences. It also allows you to exchange names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, insurance details and take photographs.

2.     Seek – Seek medical attention. Top tip: Lawyers are not medically trained. We rely heavily on medical notes as evidence in the legal process and to quantify your personal injuries as part of your claim. If you don’t seek medical attention – how can we prove you suffered personal injuries?

3.     Speak – speak to the PSNI where necessary. An official report can be crucial in proving liability, particularly in hit and runs or uninsured drivers. They may attend the scene if someone is injured and conduct a Preliminary Breath Test to ensure alcohol is not a factor in the collision. The PSNI are not at liberty to attend if there are no injuries or it is a damage only collision and details have been properly exchanged. Secondly, speak to your insurance provider and report the accident; irrespective of whether you wish to make a claim or not.

4.     Solicitor – speak to me. Whether it is day 1 of the accident or day 20, we can advise on the right steps to settle your claim. As an experienced Solicitor I will guide you through process and help determine the merit of your claim. Top tip: adults typically have three years from the date of the accident to commence their personal injury claim.

A point of contention – should I let my insurer handle everything?

No. Although you have a duty to report, be proactive in who handles your personal injury claim. Whether or not your insurer can handle a claim will depend on the type of cover you have. Laura recommends obtaining independent legal advice, outside of your insurer and accident management companies, to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s policy — protecting your no-claims bonus. Top tip: arrange an appointment to discuss the legal process including making a claim against the driver at fault’s policy; not yours. Kempton Redman Law will assist in protecting your no claims bonus.

My Service to you

I am committed to providing you with a professional, one to one service during a stressful and traumatic time. My role will involve: -  

·       Liaising with relevant third parties such as: medical experts, mechanics, the PSNI, insurance companies;

·       Making the necessary referrals to Medico-Legal Experts;

·       Ensuring you receive the best compensation in relation to damages and personal injuries;

·       Involving you throughout the entire legal process without any cost to you.

From medical expenses, lost income to pain and suffering, I ensure every aspect of your claim is properly assessed to reach the best outcome for you.

If you would like to speak to Laura regarding a Road Traffic Accident or Collision, contact us today.