I chose this topic for my blog as to assist people with the basics after a motor vehicle collision to ensure that the necessary information is obtained, should the need arise to litigate for damages.

I shall thus attempt to keep the structure of this blog as simple and short as possible.

The first step to take when in a minor accident, is to make sure that you are ok before exiting the vehicle.

Rule number 1 is to remain calm, to become angry or frustrated will not solve anything and will cloud your judgement which will cause that you forget to obtain all the information.

Step 2 is to phone the SAPS and inform them about the accident, normally the SAPS will not respond to minor motor vehicle accident (meaning accident where no major injuries were sustained), and will inform you to come to the nearest SAPS offices to report the accident.

Step 3 - Before you report the accident you must ensure that you:

1. Do not remove your vehicle from the point of impact, unless the vehicle is obstructing the flow of traffic and before you have taken photo;
2. Take a lot of photos of the damage sustained to your vehicle as well as the damages sustained to the other vehicle involved;
3. Take photos of the license disc of the vehicle involved and number plates;
4. Take 360 degree photos of both vehicles, including the general condition of the vehicle to prevent that existing damages are claimed;
5. Obtain the full names, identity number, address and work address of the driver of the other vehicle;
6. Take a photo of the driver’s license of the other driver;
7. Obtain the insurance details and contact numbers (if any);
8. Send the location (pin) to someone in your “whatsapp” contact list in order to ensure that the exact location of the accident is saved;
9. Take photos of the direction in which you and the other vehicle were traveling prior to the accident;
10. If at all possible obtain contact information of any independent eye witness who saw the accident.

Step 4 is to call you insurance company and inform them about the accident.

Step 5 if your vehicle cannot drive,  ensure that the towing company who will tow your vehicle will be covered by your insurance company and that you have the full details of the towing company inclusive of the address where they are towing your vehicle.

Step 6 – after reporting the accident to the SAPS, remember to obtain the Accident report number, which will be required to obtain a copy of the report for both your insurance company and litigation.

I know that one tend to lose focus after a motor vehicle collision, but it is important to remain calm, and obtain as much information as possible from the other driver, as it will be necessary if litigation proceed against that driver.

I hope this has been helpful.