What Car? Q&A - What should I do after an accident?

Q: In the event of a 'damage-only' accident involving two cars, do drivers have only to exchange names, addresses and registration numbers? Or are they also legally obliged to provide insurance details?
Alan E Rycroft

A: Following a road-traffic accident, motorists are required to stop and exchange details under section 170 of the 1988 Road Traffic Act. In both 'damage-only' accidents and those involving injury, a driver is required by law to supply insurance details on the demand of any person who wishes to bring a claim – be they the driver or passenger of the other vehicle involved.

Interestingly, there is no legal obligation to produce your driving licence.

There is no legal requirement to inform the police of a 'damage-only' accident. However, if injuries are sustained as a result, the police should be informed.