What should I do immediately after a car accident?

After a car accident, your priorities should be safety, providing help to anyone injured, and preserving evidence. Handling the immediate aftermath correctly protects both your legal position and any future insurance or compensation claim.

Key points

• Ensure safety first and provide or call for medical help for anyone injured — this is also a legal duty.
• Inform the police, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
• Take photographs of the vehicles, positions, and surroundings, and note witness details.
• Exchange details with the other driver, including insurance and registration information.
• Notify your insurance company promptly to protect your claim.

Relevant law

The duty to help accident victims and report the accident is under Sections 132 and 134 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Failing to stop and assist can attract penalties. Rash or negligent driving may attract Section 281 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

What you can do

• Attend to any injured persons and call emergency services.
• Report the accident to the police station in Faridabad where required.
• Document the scene thoroughly and collect witness contact details.
• Notify your insurer and consult a motor accident lawyer in Faridabad if a dispute arises.