An accident is defined as a traffic accident if it occurs on a road or in a place to which the public have access. This can include footpaths and bridleways. In Scotland, a public road is one that a local authority has a duty to maintain.
Driver obligations following an accident
Whether or not they are at fault, a driver involved in an accident must stop if
- anyone, other than themselves, is injured; or
- another vehicle, or someone else’s property, is damaged; or
- an animal in another vehicle or running across the road is injured; or
- a bollard, street lamp or other item of street furniture is damaged.
If you have to stop, you must remain near the vehicle long enough for anyone who is involved directly or indirectly in the accident to ask for details. The driver must provide their name and address, the name and address of the owner of the vehicle (if the driver is not the owner), and the registration number of the vehicle.
If any personal injury is caused to another person, the driver must produce a valid insurance certificate if asked to do so by a police officer, injured person, or anyone else directly or indirectly involved in the accident.
The driver may also have to report the accident to a police officer or at a police station, in person, as soon as practicable and in any case within 24 hours. They may be asked to present specific documentation.
Practical guidelines
- Try and stay calm, keep focused and stay safe
- Contact the emergency services if needed
- Administer any first aid where possible
- Avoid smoking near vehicles
You may wish to check out the web links below for more in-depth information about what to do when you are involved in an accident
workplacewellbeing.com assumes no responsibility for the content of linked websites.
