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What To Do If You Have a Road Traffic Accident
THE DO’S
1. Ensure the scene is safe. Switch off all engines; turn on hazard warning lights and alert oncoming traffic about the accident.
2. Call 999 immediately if:
a. any of the people involved in the accident is in need of urgent medical attention
b. the road is blocked or damaged
c. someone leaves the scene without exchanging details
3. You are required to provide your details (registration number, name, address and the name of the vehicle owner) to anyone with reasonable grounds for making such a request. If you do not exchange accident details at the scene you must report the incident to the police as soon as possible and at least within 24 hours.
4. Try and keep a small ‘accident pack’ with your motorbike at all times (if you’ve got any spare space!). This should consist of at least a notebook and pen. Also ideally a disposable camera (alternative use your mobile phone to take pictures). In the event of an accident, make a sketch of the scene. Remember to note as many details as you can such as street names, vehicle locations, direction of travel, skid marks, collision points and vehicle damage. Use your camera to take photos showing the road layout, position of the vehicles and their damage. (Take care near busy roads).
5. Get the names and addresses and vehicle registrations of any witnesses (including passengers in the other vehicles involved). Take down the registration number, make, model and colour of all other vehicles involved in the accident. Ask them for their name, address and telephone numbers. (Do not just get a mobile number, get a home number too) and insurance details. Record any other details you think may be important e.g. use of a mobile phone if you think the driver of the other vehicle has been drinking, weather conditions etc.
6. You are required to notify your insurance company of any collision you are involved in regardless of whether or not a claim is to be made or whose fault it was. However before contacting your insurer talk to RJW for legal advice on any aspect of your accident.
THE DON’T’S
1. Don’t lose your temper. Try to stay calm.
2. Don’t admit blame or offer any form of compensation at the scene of the accident.
3. Don’t use a motorbike that is not fully covered by your insurance. Check your policy for common ‘loopholes’ before setting off:
• Is your bike insured for business use?
• Are you insured to borrow a friend’s bike or take a test ride?
• Are you insured to carry a pillion passenger?
Finally, don’t ride a bike without a relevant MOT certificate, bald tyres or other defects. Besides being dangerous and illegal, it can also invalidate your insurance!
If you are not insured, you risk being sued personally.