After even a minor collision it's hard to think clearly. A calm checklist helps: make everyone safe, exchange the right details, record the scene, and decide whether the car is fit to drive. This guide covers the steps and explains when a recovery truck is the safer choice for your vehicle.
Make sure everyone is safe
Stop if you are able to, switch off the engine and put your hazards on. Check whether anyone is injured. If they are, or if the road is blocked, call 999.
Exchange the legal details
Swap names, addresses, vehicle registrations and insurance details with the other driver. Take photos of the scene, the damage, road markings and any witnesses' details.
Don't admit liability at the roadside
Be factual and polite, but leave the question of blame to the insurers.
Decide if the car can be driven
If there is fluid leaking, warning lights are on, a wheel is damaged or the steering feels wrong, do not drive. A recovery truck is the safer choice.
Calling recovery
We can recover the vehicle from the scene to your home, a bodyshop or a garage. Call with your location and we'll arrange pickup and quote you first.
Tell your insurer
Report the incident promptly, even if you do not plan to claim, and keep our recovery receipt for your records.
Common questions
Do I have to call the police after a minor accident?
You must report an accident to the police within 24 hours if you don't exchange details at the scene, or if someone is injured. Call 999 if anyone is hurt or the road is blocked.
Should I say sorry at the scene?
Be polite and factual, but avoid admitting fault. Leave liability to the insurers.
Can my car be driven after an accident?
If there are leaks, warning lights, wheel or steering damage, don't drive it. Recovery to a garage or bodyshop is safer.
Can you recover my car to my insurer's garage?
Yes. Tell us the destination and we'll quote the journey before we load.