What to do if you’re in a car accident – the vital steps every motorist needs to know to avoid penalty

IT'S always difficult to keep a clear head and know exactly what to do after a car accident.

But while you'll no doubt be worrying about injuries or damage to your car, there are several vital things you also need to think about.

Missing out on one of the important steps could see you given a hefty fine, or even be criminally charged.

For example, do you know if you have to call the police and are you clear on what information you need to get from the other drivers involved?

And is it really necessary to tell your insurer even if you've got no intention of making a claim?

With the help of , we've compiled these top tips that'll keep you out of trouble after a smash.

Be sure to stop

No matter how minor the accident, you always have to stop.

If you don't, it's classed as an offence under the Road Safety Act, which could see you hit with penalty points, a fine or even a custodial sentence.

If your car’s driveable, find a safe place to pull over, switch off your engine and turn your hazard lights on to alert other road users.

If anyone else involved in the crash fails to stop make note of their registration plate and call the police immediately.

Make the call

Look around and check if you need to call for emergency services of any kind.

Police, ambulance or fire services may all be needed depending on the type and severity of the crash.

If another person is injured you should call an ambulance, and make sure you show your insurance certificate to the police at the scene or at a police station within seven days.

If your accident means the road is blocked, you should definitely call the police.

What not to say

Try to refrain from apologising in any way.

Doing so could be seen as an admission of guilt later down the line even if you were just being polite.

Saying something as little as "sorry" could impact your insurance claim at a later date.

Don't commit to anything that could be used against you.

Get the details

Once everyone involved in the accident is in a safe place, swap details.

Get the driver’s name, address, car registration, insurance details and establish if they are the registered keeper of the vehicle - if not then you will also need the owner’s information.

You should make note of the time and date of the crash, the specific make, model and colour of all cars involved, and take photos for evidence.

Taking note of weather conditions, traffic conditions, road markings and the events of the crash can also help your case.

If you have caused damage to third party property or a parked car and the owner isn't present, you should leave a note with your contact details on a car’s windscreen.

If you don’t exchange details at the scene, you must report the incident to the police within 24 hours.

Time is ticking

You need to make sure you call your insurer as soon as possible after a crash as most companies have time limits in their policies.

Even if you don't plan to make a claim, you need to let your insurer know of any incident.

If you've got a black box fitted you may actually get a call from your insurer straight away.

They will have registered the collision and will want to check you are okay and offer help at the scene.

They will also collect the details to progress an insurance claim.