Accident Checklist

If you have been in an accident - here's some advice;

Unfortunately, it is almost always the cyclist who is worse off in terms of injury after a collision but if you are able - follow this checklist to ensure you have all the relevant information.

1. Try to remain calm and polite.
2. Draw a quick sketch of the accident scene, location, road surface and damaged vehicles/cycles, noting skid or other marks and debris on the road
3. Obtain the name and address of the other party(ies) and the registration numbers (don’t rely on them to give you the registration number of the vehicle).
4. Jot down the colour and make of the vehicle and the number of passengers.
5. If possible, take photographs of the scene.
6. Obtain names and addresses of any witnesses.
7. Always report your accident to the police. Insist that they take a report of your accident, even if your insurance details have been provided, or your injuries are 'minor'. Circumstances can arise where your claim may turn into a claim which has to be dealt with by the Motor Insurers' Bureau (see What if the other driver other is uninsured. There are strict time limits applicable for reporting in these circumstances so to be on the safe side – report it.
8. Even if the accident is damage only (no injury) Section 170 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 requires the driver of the vehicle to provide their own name and address and, if different, the name and address of the registered keeper of the vehicle. If this information is not forthcoming as soon as reasonably practical or within 24-hours at most, the accident becomes compulsorily reportable to the Police.
   If there is any injury in the accident the incident has to be reported to the Police as soon as possible and at the latest within 24-hours. The driver must produce his insurance certificate to anyone who reasonably requires it (that includes the injured party or their representatives) and to the Police within 7 days.
9. If you have hit a pothole, the council responsible would like to hear from you, but, caution - once the pothole is filled in the evidence has gone – take photographs as soon as you can.
10. If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, call the Police immediately. A hit and run - or untraced driver - does not necessarily mean where the vehicle fails to stop. Even if the driver stops, assesses the circumstances and then disappears that too is categorised as an untraced driver.
11. Do get medically examined – even if you feel fine. Make an appointment to see your GP or, if you have taken a knock on the head, go to casualty. Head injuries can be subtle; symptoms to watch for are headaches, vomiting, unsteadiness, and forgetfulness.
12. Keep your cycle in its damaged state.