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Seven simple steps that will save money and could save lives

No Motorist ever expects to be involved in a Road traffic accident yet, in Northern Ireland alone, statistics show that more than one in ten motorists are involved in a collison every year. According to the Dept. of Regional Development there are over 900,000 registered vehicles in Northern Ireland and accident frequency is currently around 11%, meaning that around 99,000 vehicles are involved in incidents each year.

Tony McKeown, Sales & Marketing Director at local Accident Management Company CRASH Services, advocates keeping a cool head if any driver has the misfortune to witness or be involved in an accident situation. Tony reveals that all drivers should know and follow these 7 simple steps in the often traumatic aftermath of an accident:

1. Stop at the Scene
   If you are first to the scene of an accident you must stop whether or not the accident was your fault.
2. Check if Anyone is in Need of Medical Attention?
   If so, call 999. If not, call Northern Ireland's new non emergency phone number on 0845 600 8000
3. Are There any Witnesses?
   Try and get the names, addresses and vehcile registrations of any witnesses before they leave the scene. Witnesses should write down their evidence and keep their orginal notes
4. Exchange Details with Other Drivers
   If you are involved in the accident you are required by law to exchange details with the other driver. You should obtain the name, address, telephone number, vehicle details and registration, insurance company and policy number of the other drivers involved. Always keep a pen and paper in the glove box.
5. Make a sketch or take photographs
   Remember to make notes of street names, skid marks, collison points, vehicle locations and directions of travel. Most adults now have mobile phones with cameras and they can be very useful for recording images. This should be done before vehicles are moved if possible.
6. Additional Information
   Note down any other details you feel are worth recording. For example, if the other driver was using their phone.
7. Call CRASH, the Accident Management People, free 24 hours a day on 0500 272747
   You should call CRASH first. We can arrange recovery of your vehicle from the scene if required. We will then work on your behalf to take away the hassle from the insurance claim