What To Do After A Car Accident: A Guide For The Motor Trade

Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, even for experienced motor trade professionals. Whether you’re test-driving a customer’s vehicle, transporting stock, or running a mobile service van, knowing exactly what to do in the event of a collision is critical. It not only protects you legally and financially, but it also helps keep your business insurance for motor trade valid and effective.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident, and what your broker needs to know.

Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, make sure everyone involved is safe.

• Turn on hazard lights.
• If possible and safe to do so, move the vehicle(s) to avoid further danger.
• Call emergency services (999) if anyone is injured or if the road is blocked.
• Do not admit fault at the scene-even if you believe you’re responsible.

Collect The Right Information

In the motor trade, it's essential to gather comprehensive details to protect your business and assist in the claims process. Ensure you get:

From All Parties Involved:

• Full name and contact details
• Address
• Vehicle registration number
• Make and model of vehicle
• Insurance company name and policy number
• Driver’s licence details (if possible)

From The Scene:

• Date, time, and exact location of the incident
• Weather and road conditions
• A description of what happened
• Photos of all vehicle damage, road markings, skid marks, and the wider scene
• Dashcam footage, if available
• Names and contact info of any witnesses

Tip: If you were driving a customer’s vehicle, make sure to record their details and vehicle handover documentation as proof that you were authorised to drive it.

Report The Accident Promptly

Do I Need to Tell My Broker?

Yes. Always report an incident to your insurance broker, even if you don’t intend to make a claim. Why?

• Policy Requirement: Most motor trade policies require notification of any incident, regardless of fault or severity
• Future Protection: It protects you in case the other party decides to claim later.
• Maintains Transparency: Non-disclosure of an accident could invalidate your cover or complicate future claims.

Let your broker know:

• When and where the accident happened]
• Who was driving
• Vehicle involved (stock, customer, courtesy car, transporter, etc.)
• A brief description of the incident
• Photos and witness details, if available

Notify The Police (If Required)

You must report the incident to the police within 24 hours if:

• Someone is injured
• You didn’t exchange details at the scene
• You suspect the other driver is uninsured or under the influence

Conclusion

Car accidents are stressful, but being prepared helps minimise disruption to your motor trade operations. Always collect full and accurate information, notify your broker promptly, and keep clear records. Your business insurance for motor trade exists to protect your business. Make sure you use it correctly.

Need help navigating your motor trade policy insurance after an accident? Contact us today; we are here to support you.

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