Road Accidents - What To Do?
When a road accident occurs, it is not uncommon for the motorist or victim to be in a state of panic and anxiety on what one should do in the immediate aftermath. Moreover, it is quite common to have a couple of touts and tow truck operators present at the scene of the accident offering their advice on what the motorist and victim should be doing. In this article (which will be part of a series on Road Accidents), I will share with you what you should be doing and what you should not be doing in the unfortunate event that you are involved in a road accident.
Stay Calm
An accident had happened. It cannot be turned back and neither will anger over the other person do anything to reduce your damages or losses. Be rational. If you are a motorist and the damage is minimal to all parties involved, move your vehicle to the side of the road so that it does not obstruct other vehicles. If possible, however, do not remove your vehicle until the police comes over to take the necessary measurements at the scene of the accident.
Exchange Particulars
Note down the particulars of the vehicles involved (registration numbers, make of the vehicle (year and model), colour and road tax number). Write down the particulars of the driver / passengers / witnesses (Name, Address, Identity card number, Driving licence number and Telephone number).
Extra Evidence Is Better
If you are blessed with a camera with you, take photographs of the scene of the accident with the vehicles on site. If it is a digital camera that you are using, do not delete the file. Same goes for negatives on analog cameras. You will need these if required to prove them in Court. Read more
How to make insurance claim without losing NCB
Previously, I mentioned that NCB (No Claims Bonus) [also known as NCD - No Claims Discount] will be forfeited in the event of a claim being made or arises during the material policy year.
So, how does one preserve the existing NCB in one’s motor insurance policy in the event of an accident? You might be able to do so provided the following minimum set of facts are applicable:-
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The accident was due to the fault of the other party. To prove this, your own insurer would require a letter of confirmation that the police has taken an action against the other party (eg. a compound issued). Do note that action taken by police is not deemed as proof of negligence as far as a civil claim is concerned. However, it suffices for most, if not all, insurers. Read more