Do I Need to Report a Road Traffic Accident? | Road Traffic Accident Solicitors in Belfast
If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident in Belfast, it’s important to understand your legal obligations, including when and how to report the incident. As specialist road traffic accident solicitors in Belfast, we’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring that you comply with the law while protecting your rights.
When Do You Need to Report an Accident?
You must report a road traffic accident if damage is caused to anything other than your vehicle or its contents. This includes other vehicles, property (such as walls, fences, or street furniture like lamp posts or street signs), or injuries sustained by anyone other than the driver. In legal terms, an animal refers to any horse, cattle, ass, mule, sheep, pig, goat, or dog involved in the accident.
Non-Reportable Accidents:
The Police Service of Northern Ireland guidance is that if only the vehicle involved is damaged, or the injury is limited to the driver or any animal carried inside or on the vehicle, you may not be required to report the accident.
What Are My Legal Obligations?
After a road traffic accident, there are several legal duties you must comply with. Failure to do so could lead to prosecution. Here’s what you need to do:
- Stop Your Vehicle and Stay at the Scene
Always stop your vehicle and remain at the scene of the accident for a reasonable period. This will allow you to exchange details with the other party involved and ensure the safety of all individuals. - Report the Accident
You must report the accident within a reasonable time to the police (via 101) or directly to the other party involved if they are present. Your solicitor in Belfast can assist you in understanding what qualifies as a reasonable time. - Exchange Details with the Other Party
Regardless of fault, you must exchange the following details with the other party involved:- Name
- Address
- Vehicle registration number
- Vehicle ownership details (if you’re not the owner)
It’s also advisable to have a copy of your insurance certificate and be ready to provide the details of your insurer and policy number. Keeping this information handy will make the process easier if you ever need to file a claim.
What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Road Traffic Accident?
It’s important to act quickly after a road traffic accident to protect your legal position and ensure that all legal requirements are met:
Notify Your Insurer:
Most insurance policies will generally require you to report any accident, regardless of fault or whether you plan to make a claim for damages or injuries. It’s essential to notify them as soon as possible. You might also want to take photographs of the scene for your insurer—provided it’s safe to do so.
Do Not Move Your Vehicle
Unless the vehicle is causing a traffic hazard or it’s unsafe to leave it where it is, avoid moving your vehicle before the police arrive. This helps ensure an accurate record of the scene and avoids further risk.
The Role of the Police at the Scene
The police recorded 4977 road traffic accidents in 2023/2024 according to their latest statistics. PSNI will attend the scene of a road traffic accident when there is an injury or risk to other road users. Once on-site, they will:
- Ensure the safety of all individuals involved
- Record the details of the parties involved, including passengers
- Investigate the cause of the accident
- Take measurements of the scene and produce a sketch if needed
- Conduct a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) to check for alcohol impairment
- Assist with vehicle recovery if required
If you’re asked to present your driving licence or proof of insurance, you must do so. If you don’t have these documents, the police may issue a ‘Requirement to Produce’ form, which you must comply with within seven days. Failing to do so may result in prosecution.
What Happens After the Police Investigation?
The police will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the collision. If someone is found to have committed a driving offence, the case may be forwarded to the Public Prosecution Service. They will decide whether to proceed with a criminal prosecution, offer an alternative outcome, or take no further action.
The police report will not provide a definitive view on blame or liability, which is why it’s important to consult a road traffic accident solicitor such as Lacey Solicitors Belfast. We can help you obtain the Collision Report Form (CRF), which is often vital for your personal injury claim or civil case.
General Advice After a Road Traffic Accident
- Stay Calm and Comply with the Law:
It’s natural to feel shaken after an accident, but remaining calm and following your legal obligations will help protect your interests. - ‘Hit and Run’ Situations:
If another vehicle leaves the scene, try to capture the registration number as quickly as possible. This will help the police trace the driver and hold them accountable. - Seek Medical Attention:
Even in minor accidents, shock and injury symptoms may not appear immediately. It’s always advisable to seek medical attention if you feel unwell or notice any injuries later. Your health is the priority. - Consult a Road Traffic Accident Solicitor:
If you’ve been injured or experienced damage to your vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced solicitors in Belfast can help you navigate the claims process, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
At Lacey Solicitors, we have decades of experience in injury and insurance matters, acting for both insurance companies in Ireland and injured individuals. As experts in road traffic accident claims in Belfast, we can provide you with the legal support you need. If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident, contact our team of solicitors using our online form today for a consultation.
