What to Do After a Road Traffic Accident in Ireland: Legal Steps Explained 

Road traffic accidents can happen to anyone, even the most careful drivers. The aftermath can be stressful, confusing and often overwhelming especially if you or someone else is injured. Knowing what steps to take immediately after an accident is vital, not only for safety reasons but also to protect your rights and ensure you can make a valid compensation claim if necessary. 

This guide explains the key legal steps to follow after a road traffic accident in Ireland, from the moments after the collision to potential court proceedings. 

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call the Emergency Services 

The first and most important priority is safety. If you are involved in a road accident, immediately, failing to do so is an offence under Irish law. 

• Check for injuries: Assess whether anyone is hurt, including passengers, pedestrians or other drivers. 
  
• Call emergency services: Dial 999 or 112 to contact the Gardaí, ambulance or fire service if there are injuries or major damage. 
  
• Make the scene safe: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic flow and turn on hazard lights to prevent further collisions. 

Even if the accident appears minor, it’s best to remain calm and avoid arguments or admitting fault at the scene. Statements made in the heat of the moment can later affect legal proceedings. 

Step 2: Exchange Details and Report the Accident 

Irish law requires all drivers involved in an accident to exchange information. You should provide and request: 

• Full names and contact details 
  
• Vehicle registration numbers 
  
• Insurance details (policy number and insurer name) 
  
• Driver’s licence details 
  

If the Gardaí attend the scene, they will compile a report. However, if they do not come (for example, in minor collisions), you should still report the incident to the nearest Garda station as soon as possible ideally within 24 hours. 

This Garda report can be crucial evidence later, especially in disputes about liability. 

Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene 

Evidence collected immediately after a road traffic accident, it can make a significant difference when it comes to insurance or legal claims. 

If it’s safe to do so, gather the following: 

• Photographs: Take clear pictures of vehicle damage, the scene layout, skid marks and any visible injuries. 
  
• Witness statements: Ask bystanders for contact details in case they can provide independent statements later. 
  
• Weather and road conditions: Note anything that may have contributed to the accident, such as rain, poor lighting, or roadworks. 

Documenting these details while they are fresh ensures you have an accurate record if questions arise later about what happened. 

Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company 

Even if the damage appears minor, it’s important to notify your insurer as soon as possible. Most insurance policies include a requirement to report accidents promptly failing to do so may invalidate your cover. 

Provide your insurer with: 

• A factual account of what happened 
  
• The other driver’s details 
  
• The Garda report reference (if available) 
  
• Any photos or witness information you gathered 
  

Avoid admitting fault or speculating about liability when speaking with insurers. Simply present the facts. 

Step 5: Seek Medical Attention 

Many people overlook this step if they feel fine after a road traffic accident. However, some injuries such as whiplash or concussion may not show symptoms immediately. 

Visit your GP or an emergency department to document any potential injuries. Medical records serve as key evidence if you later pursue a personal injury claim. 

Step 6: Consult a Personal Injury Solicitor 

Consulting a personal injury solicitor can help ensure the claim is properly prepared and valued. A solicitor will: 

• Review the accident evidence and liability issues 
  
• Obtain medical and expert reports 
  
• Handle correspondence with insurers 

A solicitor can also issue court proceedings if necessary, ensuring all legal deadlines (known as the Statute of Limitations) are met, usually two years from the date of the accident or the date you became aware of your injuries. 

Step 7: Keep Records and Follow Legal Advice 

Throughout the process, maintain detailed records of everything related to the accident medical expenses, car repair bills, lost wages and correspondence. These will help calculate the full extent of your losses. 

Follow your solicitor’s advice carefully, attend all medical appointments and avoid posting about the accident on social media, as such posts can be used as evidence in disputes. 

Conclusion 

Being involved in a road traffic accident can be traumatic, but knowing what to do afterwards will help protect your health, finances and legal rights. Prioritise safety first, report the accident promptly, gather as much evidence as possible and seek professional legal guidance before accepting any settlement offers. 

Our personal injury solicitors are here to help, contact us today to book a consultation.