Had an Accident in Stockport? What to Do in the First 30 Minutes
Even a minor bump is stressful. Your heart is racing, other drivers are waiting, and you're not sure what to do first. This checklist covers the first 30 minutes after an accident in Stockport, Manchester or on the M60, including getting your car moved safely.
1. Stop and make the area safe
If you're involved in an accident, the law says you must stop. Switch off the engine, put your hazard lights on and, if it's safe, get everyone out of the car and away from traffic. On a motorway or dual carriageway such as the M60 or M56, get behind the barrier if you can. Don't stand between your car and oncoming traffic.
2. Check for injuries and call 999 if needed
Call 999 straight away if anyone is hurt, if the road is blocked, or if you think another driver has left the scene or is under the influence. Your safety and everyone else's comes before the car.
3. Swap details with the other driver
You need to give your name, address and vehicle registration to anyone with reasonable grounds to ask for them. Also take down:
- The other driver's name, address and phone number
- Their registration number, make, model and colour
- Their insurance company, if they know it
- Names and numbers of any witnesses
If you can't exchange details at the scene, you must report the accident to the police as soon as possible, and within 24 hours at the latest.
4. Take photos
Photograph both cars, the damage, number plates, the road layout, and any skid marks or debris. Note the time, weather and road conditions. It only takes a couple of minutes and can make an insurance claim much smoother.
5. Decide whether the car can be driven
Don't drive the car if:
- Any warning lights are on, especially brake, steering or oil lights
- Fluid is leaking or you can smell fuel
- A wheel, tyre or suspension part is damaged
- Lights, mirrors or the windscreen are broken so you can't see or be seen properly
- The airbags have gone off
If in doubt, don't drive it. A damaged car can be dangerous, and you could make the repair bill bigger.
6. Call for recovery
Our accident recovery service covers Stockport, Manchester, Cheadle, Bramhall, Hazel Grove and the surrounding motorways, 24 hours a day. We'll load your car safely and take it wherever you need, whether that's home, a garage you trust or a bodyshop.
Your insurer may offer to arrange recovery. You're usually free to use your own recovery company instead, and many people do to avoid long waits. Check your policy if you're not sure.
7. Tell your insurer
Let your insurance company know about the accident as soon as you can, even if you don't plan to claim. Most policies require it. Give them the details and photos you collected at the scene.
Need help now?
If you've had an accident and your car needs moving, call WM Recovery on +44 7426 242 025. We're local to Stockport, available 24/7, and we'll get you and your car somewhere safe.