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Follow procedure after an accident
Published:
19 September 2012
Unfortunately, accidents do happen and no matter how careful you are when driving around with your touring caravan, you may find yourself involved in a collision.
If this happens, there are certain procedures you must follow to ensure that you are prepared for any insurance or compensation claims that may ensue.
Is everyone OK?
The most important thing you must do after an accident is check that everyone is OK. If someone has come to harm and an ambulance is required, call one immediately. Similarly, in certain cases police and fire services may also need to be called.
If injuries aren't serious enough for an ambulance, you must still get them checked as soon as possible.
What's the damage?
Check your vehicle and caravan to see what harm has been done. Also look at the damage on any third party vehicle or property. Take photos of your car, caravan and the site of the accident. This is important evidence.
Exchange details
You must swap car insurance and caravan insurance details with the third party immediately. Avoid getting into a conversation about whose fault it was, as this could be used against you and cause tempers to fray.
If you are involved in a hit and run incident, try to take down the number plate details.
Get witnesses
Get the contact details of any witnesses at the scene, as these will be important for insurance or compensation claims and could exempt you from a massive bill.
Contact your insurance provider
Once you are in a safe location, contact your insurance providers to alert them to the accident. They will often tell you what to do next, in terms of seeking legal counsel or supplying any relevant documents.
If you need to hire a lawyer, you will then pass on all of the information you gathered at the scene to them and they will take the case from there.