What to do after a road accident
No one ever plans to be in a road accident, but knowing what to do in those critical moments can make all the difference. Staying calm, taking the right steps, and collecting the proper information helps protect your safety, and ensures your insurance claim goes smoothly.
Here’s a simple guide from Presidential Insurance on what to do immediately after a road accident.
Stay calm and check for injuries
First, STAY CALM. Take a deep breath and make sure everyone involved is safe.
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Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
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If anyone is hurt, call emergency services right away (999 in Trinidad & Tobago).
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Avoid moving anyone who appears seriously injured unless there’s an immediate danger.
Move to a safe location
If the accident is minor and your vehicle can move, pull over to the side of the road or a safe area to prevent another collision. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
Call the police
Always report the accident to the police, even if it seems small.
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An official police report is often required when filing an insurance claim.
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The police will help record the details of the incident and determine who was at fault.
Make sure to ask for the officer’s name, badge number, and report number for your records.
Exchange information
Collect the necessary details from the other driver(s) involved, including:
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Full name and contact number
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Vehicle make, model, and registration number
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Driver’s permit number
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Insurance company and policy number
Avoid discussing fault or admitting responsibility at the scene — just exchange information calmly and politely.
Take photos and notes
Use your phone to take clear photos of:
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All vehicles involved (showing damage and license plates)
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The surrounding area and road conditions
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Any visible injuries or property damage
Write down the time, date, location, and a short description of what happened while it’s still fresh in your mind.
Notify your insurance company
As soon as possible, contact your insurance company to report the accident.
Provide all the details you gathered, along with a copy of the police report (if available). Our claims representatives will guide you through the next steps to get your vehicle assessed and your claim processed quickly.
Follow the claims process
Cooperate with your insurance provider to complete your claim quickly.
Ensure your vehicle is inspected at an approved facility and keep all related documents and receipts for your records.
Accidents are stressful, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. By staying calm, gathering the right information, and contacting your insurer promptly, you’ll protect both yourself and your claim.
Other Tips & Guides For Safer Driving
Heavy rainfall and strong winds can cause damage not only to your home, but your car too. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare your vehicle for the hurricane season.
Never let a kid ride unbuckled! Keeping children safe on the road means putting them in the right safety restraint at the right age.
Ensure that you get your vehicle's tint levels tested at a reputable tint shop, in compliance with the new regulations on vehicle tint effective on June 6th, 2021.