A road traffic accident can turn everything upside down in an instant. One moment you’re on your way as normal, the next you’re dealing with shock, possible injuries, and the stress of what comes after. Feeling shaken and unsure of what to do next is completely natural.
This is why the first 24 hours are so crucial. The steps you take straight after an accident don’t just protect your health and safety. They also strengthen your position if you decide to make a claim later.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps in clear, simple language so that you can move forward with confidence.
At My Personal Injury Claim IE, we’re here to guide you through the essential steps to take after an accident, making the process clearer and less stressful.
What to Do After a Road Traffic Accident
Being involved in a road traffic accident is unsettling, and it’s easy to feel unsure of what to do next. To simplify the process, follow these key steps within the first 24 hours.
Step 1: Put Safety First
First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is seriously hurt, call 999 or 112 immediately for emergency services.
Only move your vehicle if it’s safe to do so and doesn’t cause further risk to other drivers.
If possible, switch on hazard lights, set up a warning triangle, and stay off the road until help arrives.
Your safety — and that of others — comes first.
(See official Garda guidance: An Garda Síochána – Road Traffic Collisions)
Step 2: Call the Police if Needed
You must report the accident to An Garda Síochána if:
- Someone is injured or killed
- There is property damage, and you can’t exchange details
- You suspect the other driver is uninsured or won’t cooperate
If Gardaí attend the scene, they’ll take statements and create an official report. If they don’t attend (for minor damage), visit your local Garda station as soon as possible to make a formal report.
This report is often vital evidence if you make a claim later.
Step 3: Exchange Details at the Scene
By Irish law, all drivers involved must provide:
- Name and address
- Vehicle registration number
- Insurance details
If the driver isn’t the vehicle owner, also request the owner’s name and address. If the other party refuses to share information, note their vehicle registration and report this to Gardaí.
Step 4: Gather Evidence Straight Away
The scene can change quickly, so gather as much information as possible before it’s lost.
Take photos or videos showing:
- The position of vehicles
- Road layout and signage
- Skid marks or debris
- Weather and lighting conditions
- Any visible injuries or vehicle damage
Also:
- Note the date, time, and location
- Collect contact details from any witnesses
- Check for nearby CCTV or dashcam footage that may have recorded the incident
This evidence can be extremely valuable later when making a road traffic accident claim.
Step 5: Get Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, visit a GP or hospital as soon as possible. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussion, may not appear straight away.
Your medical record will serve as key evidence that your injury was caused by the accident.
If you delay, insurers might argue that your injuries aren’t related.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurer
Irish law requires you to notify your insurer about any accident, even if you don’t plan to make a claim through them.
Stick to the facts:
- Time, location, and type of collision
- Details of the other driver(s)
- Any Garda report reference number
Avoid admitting fault or speculating on what caused the accident. Liability will be determined later.
Step 7: Keep a Record of Everything
Start documenting everything from day one.
Keep:
- Medical reports and prescriptions
- Repair quotes and receipts
- Travel expenses to medical appointments
- Proof of lost earnings
- A diary describing your pain, recovery progress, and impact on daily life
These records help establish the true cost of your accident, not just financially, but personally.
Step 8: Avoid Common Mistakes
Many people unintentionally weaken their case by:
- Saying “sorry” at the scene (which can be interpreted as admitting fault)
- Posting about the accident on social media
- Accepting early settlement offers before getting legal advice
Remember, insurers aim to minimise payouts. Always get advice before signing or agreeing to anything.
Why the First 24 Hours Are So Important
So much emphasis is placed on the first day for good reason:
- Evidence disappears quickly. Skid marks fade, CCTV gets deleted, and witness memories become less reliable.
- Medical records matter. The sooner a doctor sees you, the stronger the link between the accident and your injuries.
- Legal obligations are strict. Reporting the accident to the police and your insurer on time avoids penalties.
- A strong start builds a strong case. Acting quickly gives insurers less room to challenge your claim later.
- Don’t sign anything without advice. Insurers may push early settlement offers that undervalue your claim. Always get professional guidance before agreeing to anything.
How Claims Work After a Road Accident
After you’ve taken the immediate steps, you can begin the personal injury claim process.
Most claims in Ireland are handled by the Injuries Resolution Board (formerly the Personal Injuries Assessment Board or PIAB).
Here’s what to know:
- Your solicitor will help you prepare your claim, gather medical reports, and submit it to the Injuries Resolution Board.
- The Board will assess your case and suggest a compensation amount.
- If either party disagrees with the assessment, your solicitor can take the case to court.
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to make a claim under the Statute of Limitations.
Final Thoughts
No one expects to be in a road traffic accident. However, if it does happen, those first 24 hours are critical. Acting quickly protects your health, keeps you on the right side of the law, and gives you the best chance of securing fair compensation.
If you’re unsure about making a claim or if the process feels overwhelming, remember you don’t have to go through it alone. At My Personal Injury Claim IE, we guide clients through every step of the process. Aside from road accidents, we also provide legal assistance for slips, trips, and falls, as well as medical and dental negligence.
Not sure what to do next? Get in touch with our team. We’ll point you in the right direction.
