When another driver may be responsible, the most useful first step is to slow the situation down. Preserve the facts, keep the key details together and avoid feeling pressured to decide everything at the roadside.
Start with safety, then the facts
Make sure everyone is safe and follow any emergency or police directions that apply. Once the immediate situation is managed, write down the basic details while they are still fresh.
- Date, time and exact location
- Other driver and vehicle details
- What you observed, without guessing at fault
Create a clear record
Photos and notes create a simple reference point for future conversations. They are most helpful when they show the overall scene as well as the visible damage.
- Take wide photos of the vehicles and their positions if safe
- Photograph registration plates, damage and relevant road signs
- Keep incident notes, emails and claim references in one folder
Ask direct questions before agreeing to a pathway
Insurance and repair pathways can involve details specific to your policy and circumstances. Ask what happens next, who is responsible for organising the repair and what information is still needed before you authorise anything.
Keep these close.
- Make safety the first priority
- Keep a factual record of what happened
- Collect information in one place
- Read any claim or policy communication carefully
This article is general information only. Insurance policies, vehicle condition and repair plans can involve details specific to your situation.