What To Do When an Accident Happens

THERE are certain steps that you need to take as a driver to keep within the law when involved in an accident.

The rules to adhere to in an accident where there is death or injury, and one in which there is only vehicle damage, are different.

When there is only vehicle damage

• Stop your vehicle

• Exchange particulars such as names, addresses and vehicle registration numbers. You may also note the information on the licence disc

• If the damaged vehicles cannot be driven, arrange to have them towed. The vehicles must not be left obstructing traffic

• Report the accident to the police within 24 hours and make a note of the police accident report number

• Inform your insurance company if your vehicle is covered by insurance

When there is injury or death

• Stop your vehicle immediately

• Ascertain the nature and extent of injuries

• Help the injured and call the police and/or ambulance service

• Give the police your name and address and also that of the vehicle’s owner if the vehicle does not belong to you

• If you are incapable of providing this information on account of injuries sustained, you must do as soon as it is reasonably possible. In fact, the requirement is that you report the matter within 24 hours at a police station

• When reporting the accident, you will be asked to produce your driving licence and identity document

• You must not move your vehicle if a person has been killed or injured unless you are authorised by a traffic officer

• However, if the vehicle involved "causes a complete obstruction of the roadway" it may be moved "sufficiently to allow for the passage of traffic". But this can be done without a policeman’s authority only after the position of the vehicle on the road has been clearly marked

(Information supplied by Durban Metro Police)

Related Topic

Anatomy of an accident

back