Involved in a Car Accident? A Simple Guide to Managing the Next Steps

An accident can happen in seconds where even a minor collision can be unsettling, leaving you unsure of what to do first. While every situation is different, a calm, practical approach at the scene can help protect everyone involved and make the process that follows far smoother. 

Check for injuries first

Safety comes first. Check yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, contact emergency services immediately on 10177 or 112. Please avoid moving injured people unless they are in immediate danger. 

Make the scene safe

Switch on your hazard lights and place warning triangles to help create a safer environment and prevent further incidents. If it’s safe to do so, take clear photos, then wait for the authorities or go to the nearest police station.

Don’t allow a tow without authorization

Uninvited tow operators often arrive quickly at accident scenes. Do not agree to a tow unless it has been authorised by your insurer, otherwise, you may be responsible for the full towing costs. If you need assistance, contact the Santam Emergency Assist for emergency services or to lodge your claim on 0860 505 911.

Report the incident or accident to the police

A police accident or incident report helps document what happened and can assist in resolving any disputes. Remember, all accidents must be reported. If a report is not taken at the scene by the authorities, you are required to report the incident to the nearest police station within 24 hours.

Take your ID and driver’s licence with you. Be sure to keep the accident report number and copy for your records and insurance claim. 

Take clear photos

Photos can make a meaningful difference when submitting your claim. Capture:

• Clear photos of the damage to your vehicle, registration number and license disc
• Clear photos of the accident scene and surrounding areas
• Visible damage of all vehicles involved
• Skid marks, road conditions and surrounding scene
• Nearby street signs or landmarks
• Close-ups of impact areas and surrounding scene

If a third‑party vehicle is involved, make sure you have clear photos of their vehicle, the registration number, license disk, and their driver’s licence for the accident report. These details help provide a clear picture of what happened. 

Exchange information carefully

Collect all necessary details, including:

• Full names and contact numbers
• ID and driver’s licence details
• Vehicle registration numbers
• Insurance information

Taking photos of documents can help avoid errors. 

Avoid admitting fault

Keep discussions factual and avoid assigning blame. Do not admit liability at the scene, as fault will be assessed during the claims process. 

Submit your claim promptly

Once you are safe, submit your claim with all relevant information and photos. To ensure the right support is activated quickly, report the incident as soon as possible by calling Santam Emergency Assist on 0860 505 911.