TL;DR – Our version of “I’m not reading all that, *SparkNotes pls.”
- Check for injuries (visible and hidden), and call emergency services (10111 Police, 10177 Ambulance, or 112 from cell) if anyone is hurt or the scene is unsafe.
- If safe and possible, move vehicles out of traffic and turn on hazard lights. Don’t leave the scene.
- With your smartphone, take extensive photos (wide-angle and close-up of damages, positions, road conditions, skid marks) and notes.
- Calmly and respectfully obtain witness contact details. Share names, contact details (verify their phone number immediately), driver’s license, vehicle details, and insurance info with the other party.
- File a police report within 24 hours, especially for injuries or significant damage. Get a case number – it’s crucial for insurance.
- Do NOT admit fault or discuss accident specifics. Call your insurance company ASAP (have your policy number and accident summary ready). Provide all collected details to start your claim.
Car accidents can shake even the steadiest driver’s nerves. Whether it’s a minor scrape or a major collision, the aftermath can range from mildly inconvenient to life-altering.
While car accidents can be overwhelming, knowing the proper steps to take immediately after can give you a sense of control and peace of mind. Because when it comes to collisions, your immediate response can make a world of difference.
That said, here’s your guide to navigating the aftermath with confidence.
Whether you are a veteran driver or a newcomer to the roads of South Africa, Pineapple’s guide will equip you with the essential knowledge and strategies to handle any vehicular mishap confidently.
Disclaimer: The information provided below should be considered as a suggested guideline and not as definitive advice for every situation. Each incident is unique, and circumstances can vary widely. It’s important to recognise that in many cases, individuals involved in an incident may be too injured or otherwise unable to perform some of the actions outlined below. Always prioritise safety and health and seek professional assistance as needed.
Safety First: Your Immediate Actions After A Collision
There’s no undoing what’s already happened.
Instead, focus on the things that are firmly in your control, starting with your safety and those involved in the accident. If someone is injured, avoid moving them unless necessary. For example, moving someone with neck or back injuries can cause more damage.
It’s best to get emergency and medical experts on the scene ASAP; always wait for emergency services to take the lead.
If you must provide immediate assistance and no barrier is available (surgical gloves), use the least amount of contact necessary. You can, instead, apply direct pressure to a bleeding wound using a clean piece of clothing from the injured person.
Check for Injuries: Visible and Hidden Hurts
It’s essential to seek medical attention as some injuries manifest hours or even days later. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, injuries like whiplash, muscle strains, and concussions may not be visible right away.
If you’re hurt, seek medical attention or ask someone else to call.
But, if you’re not too hurt to move, check on the passengers in your car or the other driver(s) involved in the crash. It’s crucial not to move an injured person or administer first aid assistance unless you are qualified to do so.
Additionally, if a commuter or pedestrian is injured or property is damaged, South African road law mandates that you stay at the accident scene until the police arrive.
Move to a Safer Location: Preventing Further Accidents
Remember, leaving the scene is not only dangerous but also illegal. If it’s safe, move your vehicle out of the way to prevent further accidents.
Afterwards, secure the scene by placing a warning triangle on the road or flashing your car’s hazard lights. This will alert other motorists to the danger ahead and inform them to proceed cautiously. These warnings are critical if the accident occurs around a blind curve, over a hill, or in any location where visibility is compromised.
If you can’t move the car, or if moving it might cause further damage or risk, then leave it where it is, get to safety, and turn on those hazard lights.
So, don’t be ‘that guy’—a hit-and-run is not only uncool, it’s a criminal offence.
Document the Scene: Gathering Evidence After an Accident
Capture the scene using your smartphone camera—photograph all angles, including vehicle positions, road conditions, damages, and any other evidence.
Consider recording a verbal note if you have a voice recorder on your phone. Or, you can mark the road with chalk or spray paint (if, for some bizarre reason, you keep either of those things on you).
However, ensure that it’s safe to do so first!
Take Photographs: Comprehensive Visual Records
You’ll need to capture the positions of the involved cars, the damage to both vehicles, and the road conditions. These photographs serve as valuable evidence for insurance claims and legal matters, should they arise.
Before moving any vehicles, take both wide-angle and close-up photographs of the scene. Focus on the vehicles’ positions, nearby traffic signs, and any skid marks on the road.
Otherwise, you can sketch the scene and record all the above details.
It’s good to document everything immediately, should your recollection of the incident become fuzzy later.
Record Witness Information: Unbiased Accounts
If there are people who saw what happened, their accounts can be valuable. Their unbiased recollections can ensure the incident is fairly assessed and resolved.
Witness statements are pivotal, especially when accident details are unclear or disputed. That’s why it’s essential to approach witnesses calmly and respectfully, explaining that their contact details may help clarify the incident for insurance and legal purposes.
Assure them you will use their information only for accident-related purposes, insurance claims, or legal proceedings.
And once you’re done, thank them for their time and cooperation.
Notify Authorities: When and How to Contact the Police
Reporting an accident to the police is not only legally required in some instances but also ensures a formal record of the event, which is necessary for insurance claims. For Pineapple clients, dial our emergency number (087 365 8626) for round-the-clock roadside assistance.
If officers can’t come to the scene, visit the nearest police station within 24 hours to file the report.
Contact Emergency Services: Important Numbers to Have
Here are the essential emergency numbers for South Africa that you should have at hand in case of a car accident:
- SAPS (South African Police Services): 10111, or contact your nearest police station.
- Ambulance: 10177, call in the case of a medical emergency or in conjunction with both the fire and police departments, depending on whether or not there are casualties.
- Netcare: 082 911
- ER24: 084 124
- Universal emergency number: Dial 112 from any mobile phone in South Africa to be routed to your network provider’s emergency call centre. The operator then connects you to the relevant emergency service (e.g., police, ambulance, fire, traffic police, sea rescue).
Share Contact Details: Remaining Calm and Courteous
It’s time to swap details. During this exchange, it’s vital to stay calm and courteous, speak politely, and try to cooperate.
High-stress situations like car accidents can very quickly become heated. Thus, keeping a level head helps prevent an argument or conflict from escalating.
Remember, this exchange of information is necessary and not the time to assign blame or discuss the accident’s specifics.
Limit Conversation while Exchanging Information: Avoid Admitting Fault
Keep the conversation brief and to the point, discussing only the essential info, like the insurance and police reports.
While exchanging contact and insurance information is essential, it’s equally important to be mindful of the conversation’s content. Avoid discussing the details of the accident or admitting fault; this can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or disputes later on.
Speak one wrong word, and you might find the accident’s blame assigned to you, misinterpreted or used in a claim or legal case!
Gather and Exchange Information: What Details to Collect
Before either of you leaves the scene, ensure you have the following information:
- Full names (we’re talking first and middle names, initials and surnames)
- Cellphone number* (or other contact details)
- Driver’s licence and number plate
- Make, model and colour of the vehicle
- Insurance company and policy details
- Location of accident (date and time)
- ID number
- Home address
- Details of any eyewitnesses at the scene
*Verify the details immediately—call the cell phone number to ensure it’s accurate and ensure both parties exchange contact information calmly.
Additionally, you might want to call a relative, friend, or someone you trust—the first prize goes to the person who arrives at the scene the quickest.
Things can quickly spiral after an accident, and you can easily get taken advantage of in a state of shock. So it is always good to have someone in your corner who is awake, alert, and knows what’s going on, especially if this is your first accident.
All this information is critical for potential legal proceedings and insurance claims, so do your best to ensure accuracy.
File a Police Report: Your Official Record of the Incident
Don’t waste your time and energy trying to establish who was at fault, or risk tempers flaring and coming to blows with the other party—leave that to the professionals. The responding police officers will complete an accident report and document the scene.
If, instead, you have to report the incident to the police station, do so at the one in the area closest to the accident scene within 24 hours.
For example, if you’re based in Illovo but the accident took place in Midrand, do not report it in Illovo. Instead, report it in Midrand. Reporting the incident in the correct jurisdiction ensures that the appropriate authorities can handle the matter effectively and in compliance with the law.
Importance of a Police Report: Essential for Claims and Legalities
For accidents involving injuries, significant damage, or disputes, a police report is mandatory.
A police report is an official and legal document providing truthful and precise information. The accuracy of this report can significantly impact the outcome of insurance claims or potential legal action.
It’s important to note that no insurance claim of this nature will proceed without a valid, stamped and signed police report and case number. So, come prepared with the necessary documents.
Obtain A Case Number: Streamlining Post-Accident Processes
A case number is a unique identifier for your incident, and the reference links to the specific details in the police database. It also ensures all parties refer to the same incident and helps streamline the post-accident processes.
The case number allows your insurance provider to easily access the police report and verify the details of your claim.
Keep this number safe, and include it in all your correspondence regarding the crash, whether with your insurance company, legal counsel, or other related parties.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Initiating Your Claim After an Accident
When calling your insurance provider, have your policy number ready along with a concise summary of the accident, including any details you’ve already gathered, like witness statements and the police case number.
Prompt Notification: Timely Reporting is Key
Time is of the essence, and swift notification is key.
Most insurance providers require you to report an accident within a specific timeframe for them to consider your claim. Delaying can complicate the claims process or, worse, lead to a denial of your claim!
When contacting your insurance provider, have your policy number ready and a concise summary of the accident, including:
- The date
- Time
- Location
- A brief description of the police report
- Case number
Also, report any vehicle damage and share the other parties’ names, contact details, and insurance information. The more details you can provide, the smoother the initial phase of the claims process will be.
Follow Claim Procedures: Navigating the Insurance Process
Each insurance provider has its own procedures for the claims process, and it’s essential to follow them honestly and efficiently.
Prompt responses to your insurance provider’s inquiries and the timely submission of required documents can significantly expedite the claim’s resolution.
That said, the claims process typically involves gathering and submitting various documents and evidence related to the accident. This evidence provides an accurate and honest account of the incident and helps your insurer assess the claim accurately.
Key documents and evidence may include:
- The police report.
- Photographs of the accident scene.
- Vehicle damage documentation.
- Witness statements.
You may also need to complete a claim form, which typically requests detailed information about the accident and the extent of the damages. It is crucial to provide an honest and thorough account of the accident on this form!
By approaching the claims process with transparency and honesty, you not only fulfil your obligations but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient experience.
FAQ: What to Do After a Car Accident
What is the first thing you do in a car accident?
After a car accident, the first thing to do is to ensure safety and check for injuries. Assess your well-being and that of your passengers (if applicable); if anyone is hurt, call emergency services (like 10177 for an ambulance) or 112 for other emergencies. If safe, move your car out of traffic’s way to avoid causing another accident.
What are the steps in a car accident?
- Ensure safety and check for injuries.
- Move your vehicle to a safe location (if possible).
- Document the scene with pictures and voice notes.
- Collect witness statements and contact information.
- Exchange contact details and insurance information with the other driver.
- Report the incident to the police and get a case number.
- Notify your insurance provider and submit a claim.
What steps would you follow if you were involved in an accident?
- Stay calm, check for injuries, and move to a safe spot.
- Immediately call for help by dialling emergency services.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including names, contact numbers, and insurance details.
- Document the scene by snapping photos, gathering witness details, and making notes.
- Contact your insurance provider ASAP to report the accident and start the claims process.
How does an accident happen?
Common causes of a car accident include driver error, such as distracted or reckless driving, speeding, or impaired driving (driving under the influence). Weather conditions or poor road maintenance can also contribute to a car accident. Lastly, vehicle malfunctions like brake failure or tyre blowouts can lead to collisions.
Who is liable in South Africa for a car accident, the owner or driver?
In South Africa, the driver responsible for causing the accident is generally liable for damages. But, the car’s owners can also be held liable, for example, if they allow an unlicensed or incompetent driver to use their vehicle or if the driver acts on their behalf, such as an employee.
Who is liable to pay damages in a car accident?
The person found responsible for causing a car accident is typically liable for paying damages. Usually, their insurance will cover these costs upfront, up to their policy’s limits. If the at-fault party does not have insurance coverage or the damages exceed their policy’s limits, they’ll be responsible for covering the repair costs. The Road Accident Fund (RAF) may provide compensation for personal injuries.
How does insurance work when it’s not your fault?
If an accident isn’t your fault, you can claim damages directly from the at-fault driver’s third-party liability insurance. You can claim from your insurance provider if you have comprehensive car insurance. They will cover the cost of damages (minus the excess amount), then seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver’s insurance through subrogation. This may lead to a refund of your excess fee.
How to claim from insurance for a car accident?
Promptly contact your insurance provider after an accident; most insurers have a specific reporting timeframe that you should adhere to. Have your policy number and a summary of the accident’s details ready. If necessary, you may need to submit key documents like a police report, images, and witness statements. Cooperate fully and respond to your insurance’s inquiries to speed up the claims process.
How long after an accident can you claim from the road accident fund?
You typically have three years from the accident date to lodge a claim with the Road Accident Fund (RAF). This period reduces to two years for hit-and-run incidents where the driver or owner is unidentified. For minors, the three-year period only begins from their 18th birthday, allowing them to lodge a claim until they turn 21.
Conclusion: Finding Empowerment After an Accident
You now know what to do if you are involved in a car accident. Preparation in the form of knowledge empowers you to handle car collisions with calmness, confidence and clarity.
It’s essential to prioritise safety, ensuring that you and others involved are out of harm’s way before proceeding with any other actions.
By following these steps, you can handle a car accident with confidence and clarity, ensuring the best possible outcome for your safety and claims.
Ready to protect yourself? Get your free car insurance quote now.
Pineapple (FSP 48650) is underwritten by Old Mutual Alternative Risk Transfer Insure Limited, a licensed Non-Life Insurer and authorised FSP. T&Cs apply. Premium is risk profile dependent.
Please note: The information provided above is for informational purposes only; you should not construe any such information as legal or financial advice.
