Road Traffic Accident: What You Should Do

What To Do After a Road Traffic Accident: Your Complete UK Legal Guide (2025)

A road traffic accident can happen in seconds — but the decisions you make immediately afterwards can shape your entire recovery and compensation claim. Whether you were the driver, passenger, cyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian, knowing your legal rights is essential.

At Harrison Bryce Solicitors, we help injured individuals secure the compensation they deserve. This simple guide explains exactly what to do after an accident and how to protect your claim.

1️⃣ Ensure Safety & Call for Help

Safety always comes first.

• Move to a safe area if possible
• Switch on hazard lights
• Call 999 if anyone is injured or the road is blocked
• Call 101 to report non-emergency accidents

The police report often becomes important evidence in your claim.

2️⃣ Gather Evidence at the Scene

If it is safe to do so, collect as much information as possible.

Take photos of:

• Vehicle damage
• Road conditions
• Skid marks or debris
• Your visible injuries

Get details from:

• The other driver (name, number, insurance provider)
• Witnesses (names and contact details)
• Dashcam or CCTV footage (if available)

Strong evidence = stronger compensation.

3️⃣ Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel “okay,” you must see a GP or visit A&E.

Why?

Because insurance companies often deny claims when there’s no medical record.
Your medical notes help prove:

• Injuries
• Pain levels
• Ongoing treatment
• Long-term impact

Never delay treatment — your health and your claim depend on it.

4️⃣ Inform Your Insurance Provider

Notify your insurance company within 24 hours, even if the accident was not your fault.

When speaking to insurers:

• Stick to the facts
• Do NOT admit fault
• Do NOT agree to a quick low-value settlement

Insurers often try to minimise payouts — speak to a solicitor first.

5️⃣ Contact a Specialist Road Traffic Accident Solicitor

A solicitor will:

• Handle all communication with insurers
• Arrange medical assessments
• Calculate your compensation
• Fight for your rights under No Win No Fee

With Harrison Bryce Solicitors, you pay nothing unless your claim succeeds.

6️⃣ What Can You Claim Compensation For?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

💥 Physical injuries

Whiplash, fractures, back injuries, head trauma, soft-tissue damage.

🧠 Psychological injuries

Anxiety, PTSD, travel fear, emotional trauma.

💷 Financial losses

• Loss of earnings
• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation costs
• Vehicle repairs
• Travel expenses

🚗 Long-term impact

Life-changing injuries may receive significantly higher payouts.

7️⃣ How Long Do You Have to Claim?

In most cases, you have 3 years from:

• The date of the accident, or
• The date you first realised your injury

Children have until their 21st birthday to claim.

8️⃣ Why Choose Harrison Bryce Solicitors?

We specialise in personal injury and road accident cases with:

• ✓ No Win No Fee
• ✓ Fast assessments
• ✓ Dedicated legal support
• ✓ Maximum compensation pursuit

Our experienced team handles everything, so you can focus on recovery.

📞 Need Legal Help After an Accident?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a road traffic accident, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

➡ Speak to Harrison Bryce Solicitors today for a free consultation.
Your recovery and your rights matter.