If you’ve been involved in a car collision, your mind is probably racing. You’re worried about the damage to your car and yourself, not to mention how you’ll manage to deal with everything that follows.
Research from car accident claim experts National Accident Helpline shows that 82% of drivers feel generally safe on UK roads. Car accident claim experts at National Accident Helpline have found that 82% of drivers in the UK feel generally safe on the roads. Despite this, government data shows that 1,633 fatal collisions occurred in 2024, a concerning rise from the year before. This underscores just how serious road safety issues are in the UK, and how important it is to take the right steps after a crash.
During all the stress and emotions, many drivers unintentionally make mistakes that can hurt their chances of getting the compensation they deserve.
1. Not reporting the accident immediately
One of the biggest mistakes you can make following a collision is failing to report it right away. This could delay the claims process and, in some cases, jeopardise your ability to receive compensation.
The sooner you report the incident to the police and your insurer, the more effective the claims process will be. It’s not just about getting the necessary paperwork but also establishing a timeline of events that can support your case later on.
Delaying the report may make it harder to prove what happened, particularly if any of the involved parties change their version of events later. Always ensure you have a clear record and that the authorities are aware of the accident as soon as possible.
2. Apologising at the scene
According to National Accident Helpline research, 78% of women report feeling safe behind the wheel, while 86% of men share the same sentiment. Interestingly, male drivers accounted for 61% of casualties of all severities on the UK’s roads in 2024, showing that women are statistically safer.
Yet despite this, women’s lack of confidence might lead to them apologising prematurely, thinking they might have been the cause of the crash when it wasn’t their fault at all. This behaviour can compromise the insurance process.
Similarly, the research found that while more than 84% of drivers admit they’re responsible for staying updated on Highway Code changes, only 27% do so. Not knowing the latest changes could lead to you mistakenly apologising for an accident that wasn’t your fault.
3. Not seeking medical attention
Adrenaline can mask pain, and what seems like a minor ache can turn into a serious injury later.
It’s vital to see a doctor as soon as possible to ensure your health is properly evaluated and to establish a clear medical record linking your injuries to the incident.
Delaying or skipping medical treatment can also weaken your claim. Insurance companies and lawyers may argue that since you didn’t seek care immediately, your injuries might not have been as severe or directly related to the crash.
Final thoughts…
The steps you take immediately after a car accident can make all the difference between a successful claim and one that gets delayed or denied. And National Accident Helpline’s research serves as a timely reminder of the challenges and risks on the road.
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but by staying calm and following these simple steps, you’ll be giving yourself the best opportunity to move forward with confidence.
