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When Should You Contact the Police Due to a Car Accident
When Should You Contact the Police Due to a Car Accident
In the United Kingdom, knowing when to contact the police following a car accident is crucial for personal safety, legal clarity, and accurate documentation. While not every accident requires police involvement, certain situations necessitate immediate police intervention.
Key Reasons to Contact the Police
Injuries
If anyone involved in the accident sustains injuries, contact the police immediately. Prompt police involvement allows for an accurate incident record, coordination with emergency medical services, and documentation of injuries that may support insurance or legal claims.
Fatalities
In the tragic case of a fatal accident, contacting the police is not only advisable but mandatory. The police will conduct a detailed investigation, gather witness statements, and create a report that may be required for legal proceedings.
Hit and Run
If the other driver leaves the scene without exchanging information, it constitutes a hit-and-run—a criminal offence. Reporting this to the police promptly increases the chances of identifying the fleeing driver and helps ensure that they are held accountable.
Suspected Criminal Activity
When a driver involved in an accident displays suspicious behaviour, such as signs of intoxication or reckless driving, report it to the police. Any criminal activity surrounding the accident, including driving under the influence, can impact both legal consequences and insurance claims.
Disputed Liability
If both parties disagree on who is at fault, calling the police can help clarify responsibility. Officers can document the scene, gather witness accounts, and produce an official report that might be valuable for resolving liability in insurance claims or legal disputes.
Uninsured or Uncooperative Drivers
In cases where a driver lacks insurance, refuses to provide necessary information, or behaves uncooperatively, involving the police ensures that information is collected correctly and that all parties comply with UK driving laws.
Damaged Property or Obstruction
An accident that causes substantial damage to public property, such as traffic signs, signals, or barriers, or obstructs traffic flow should be reported to the police. Officers can assess damage, facilitate any necessary road repairs, and clear obstructions to ensure public safety.
Road Safety Concerns
If an accident results in a road hazard, such as spilt fuel or debris, the police should be contacted to manage the situation and make the area safe for other drivers.
What Information the Police Will Gather
When police officers arrive at the accident scene, they will document several critical details, including:
- Personal information for all involved drivers and witnesses
- Registration, make, and model of the vehicles involved
- Details of the accident scene, including time, location, and weather conditions
- Any observed injuries or property damage
This information becomes part of an official police report that may be crucial for insurance claims or legal actions.
How a Police Report Can Help in Insurance Claims
Having a police report adds credibility to your insurance claim, as it provides a neutral, third-party account of the accident. Insurance companies often rely on this report when assessing claims, particularly in cases involving injury, disputed liability, or suspected fraud. Furthermore, the report may help speed up the claims process by providing thorough documentation that prevents unnecessary back-and-forth between parties.
Exceptions: When You May Not Need to Call the Police
While it’s advisable to contact the police in most accident situations, there are a few exceptions where it may not be necessary, such as:
- Minor Accidents: If the accident is minor, with no injuries, disputed liability, or property damage, it may not be required.
- Private Property Incidents: In cases where an accident occurs on private property (such as a car park), it’s usually best to exchange information with the other driver and consult your insurance provider about the next steps.
Consider erring caution if you’re unsure, as involving the police can help avoid complications in future claims or liability disputes.
Contacting the Police: Emergency and Non-Emergency
In the UK, you can contact the police by calling 101 for non-emergencies. However, if there is immediate danger or a need for urgent assistance, dial 999 for immediate help. When speaking with emergency services, be prepared to provide details such as the location of the accident, the number of vehicles involved, and whether there are any injuries.
Conclusion
In any accident, assessing the situation and deciding whether to call the police can be challenging. When in doubt, it’s usually beneficial to involve the police to ensure proper documentation, assistance, and protection for all involved. Having a police report can also be a valuable asset for any necessary legal or insurance follow-up, making it a crucial step in effectively dealing with an accident’s aftermath.
Section 170 of the UK Road Traffic Act 1988 outlines a driver’s legal duties following a car accident. It mandates stopping and exchanging contact and insurance details for injury, vehicle damage, or harm to certain animals. Drivers must report accidents at a police station within 24 hours if they cannot provide details on-site or lack proof of insurance. Failure to comply may result in criminal charges.
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