If someone drove into you, it is easy to feel uncertain about what to do next, especially when you believe you are not at fault. The steps you take in the first hour can affect your safety, the quality of the evidence, and how smoothly repairs and insurance processes go in the UK. Below, we set out clear, calm guidance that applies to most non-fault accidents, including for drivers in Caversham and Abingdon.

1) Make the scene safe first

Your first priority is safety, not paperwork.

  • Stop as soon as it is safe and switch on hazard lights.
  • Check for injuries to you, passengers, and anyone else involved.
  • Call 999 if anyone is injured, if the road is blocked, or if there is immediate danger.
  • Move to a safer location if it is safe and legal to do so. On a busy road, staying in a dangerous position can increase the risk of a secondary collision.

If you are on a motorway, follow Highways guidance and prioritise getting yourself to a safe place. If you feel shaken or unwell, take a moment before making calls or decisions.

2) Stay factual and avoid admitting liability

After a collision, people often apologise out of instinct. In practice, it is better to keep your words neutral and factual. You can check everyone is safe and exchange details without discussing who is to blame at the roadside.

Liability decisions are usually made later using evidence such as vehicle positions, photos, and witness accounts. If the other driver becomes confrontational, avoid escalation and focus on recording details. If you feel threatened, move to a safe place and call the police.

3) Exchange the right information

In a UK road traffic accident, you should try to exchange key details with the other driver. If they refuse, note what you can and involve the police.

  • Name and address of the driver and (if different) the vehicle owner
  • Vehicle registration number
  • Insurance provider and policy number (if available)
  • Time, date, and exact location
  • Contact details for any independent witnesses

If the collision involves a company vehicle, taxi, or courier, note the business name and any identifying markings. If the other driver is not the registered keeper, record that too.

4) Collect evidence while you can

Good evidence helps you explain what happened and can reduce delays later. If it is safe, use your phone to capture:

  • Photos of both vehicles from several angles, including close-ups of damage
  • Wide shots showing road layout, lane markings, and nearby signs
  • The positions of the vehicles (before they are moved, if safe to photograph)
  • Any debris, skid marks, and weather or lighting conditions
  • Dashboard warning lights if they appear after the impact

If you have dashcam footage, save a copy as soon as you can. Many systems overwrite recordings automatically. If there are witnesses, ask politely for their contact details and a brief summary of what they saw.

5) Know when you must report the accident to the police

Not every collision requires police attendance, but you may need to report it. In the UK, if you do not exchange details at the scene, or if someone is injured, you should report the accident to the police as soon as reasonably practicable and, in many situations, within 24 hours.

Examples where reporting is particularly important include:

  • The other driver leaves the scene (hit-and-run)
  • The other driver refuses to provide details
  • You suspect the other driver is uninsured, intoxicated, or not licensed
  • There is damage to street furniture or property (for example, a sign or wall)

If the other driver drives off, note the registration number and direction of travel. If you can do so safely, record the make, model, and colour.

6) Tell your insurer promptly, even if you are non-fault

Most policies require you to notify your insurer about any accident. This is separate from making a claim. When you report it, stick to clear facts and share any evidence you have collected.

You may be offered different repair routes. If you are considering a non-fault accident claim, it can help to understand what is being proposed, for example:

  • Approved repairer routes organised by your insurer
  • Independent repair where you choose the bodyshop
  • Vehicle recovery and storage if the car is not driveable

If you are unsure about the extent of damage, a proper inspection matters. Seemingly minor impacts can affect sensors, alignment, or mounting points behind the bumper.

7) Look after your health and keep a simple record

Some symptoms, such as neck or back pain, can appear later. If you develop pain, dizziness, or headaches, seek medical advice. This is about your wellbeing first.

It also helps to keep a basic written timeline in your notes app. Include the time of the collision, what you recall, who you spoke to, and any costs that follow. Keep receipts for expenses that arise directly because of the accident, such as alternative travel.

8) Sorting the repairs: what to expect

After you have reported the incident, the next practical step is understanding what your car needs. A repair estimate should reflect visible damage and likely hidden damage. If your car is safe to drive, you can arrange an assessment. If it is not safe, ask about recovery options.

We often find that drivers benefit from a clear, written estimate before repairs begin. If you want a straightforward view of the damage and repair approach, you can use our free repair estimate service.

Depending on circumstances, non-fault support can also include help with arranging repairs and, where appropriate, discussing mobility options while your car is off the road. Terminology can vary. For example, you may hear “credit hire”, which is a type of temporary vehicle arrangement where costs are typically recovered from the at-fault insurer if the claim succeeds. It is important to read documents carefully and ask questions about any obligations before you agree to anything.

When you feel ready, take the next step

If you have been hit and you believe you are non-fault, you do not have to work through the process alone. We can talk you through the usual next steps, the evidence that helps, and the repair route that makes sense for your situation, whether you are in Caversham, Abingdon, or nearby.

Primary next step: If you want guidance and support with a non-fault accident, visit our non-fault accident support page to see what information we need and how we can help you move forward.