Advice in the event of a road accident

What should you do if you are involved in a road collision?

You must STOP at the scene

• If someone is injured, telephone for an ambulance and the police, giving an accurate location.
• If no one is injured but the road is blocked, or you need assistance, telephone the police.
• Obtain the name and address of any witnesses to the collision. This will assist you later.
• You must give your own and the vehicle owner's name and address. You must also provide your insurance details. Be prepared to provide this information to anyone who has reasonable grounds for asking.

If you do not give your name and address at the time to any person who has reasonable grounds to ask, you must report the accident to the police as soon as practicable, and in any case, within 24 hours. Remember to take your driving documents with you.

What will the police do for you?

Non injury collisions may not be recorded; you will be advised if this is the case.

Any collision that needs to be recorded will be allocated to a police officer, who will investigate the circumstances, check all documents and complete a written record.

Therefore all the information is available to you should you require it.

Will the police prosecute in every case?

Essex police will investigate and record details of any collisions where there is clear evidence of unacceptable driver behavior or other offences in relation to the use of the vehicle.

We will enforce the law where necessary and appropriate, in accordance with the guidelines agreed with the Crown Prosecution Service.

What if the other driver is uninsured?

Essex Police will fully investigate the circumstances and record all details of the collision. We will enforce the law where the driver can be identified.

Compensation for damage and injury caused by an uninsured driver, or injury caused by an unidentified driver may be available from the:

Motor Insurers' Bureau
Linford Wood House
6-12 Capital Drive
Linford Wood
Milton Keynes
MK14 6XT

Telephone number: 01908 830001

If anyone is injured and receives hospital treatment, is there a charge?

Yes. Legislation allows hospital authorities to make a charge for emergency treatment of road accident casualties. Your insurance company can help you with this.