A collision is disorienting even at low speed — the goal in the first few minutes is safety first, evidence second, and towing arrangements third. Here's the order that actually matters.
1. Check for injuries, then move to safety
Before anything else, check yourself and passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately. If the vehicle is drivable and it's safe to do so, move it to the shoulder or nearest safe area — a stationary car in a live lane is a second-accident risk.
2. Make yourself visible
Switch on hazard lights, and if you have a warning triangle, place it well behind the vehicle — further back on a highway than on a suburban street. Reflective clothing helps if you have it in the boot.
3. Document before anything moves
Photograph both vehicles, the road position, licence plates, and any visible damage from multiple angles before vehicles are moved (traffic permitting). Exchange names, contact numbers, and insurance details with the other driver.
4. Report it
South African law requires accidents involving injury or significant damage to be reported to the police within 24 hours. Get the case number — your insurer and any towing/storage provider will ask for it.
5. Call for recovery
Once everyone is safe and the scene is documented, call a towing company with flatbed/rollback recovery so a damaged vehicle isn't dragged on its wheels. Ask upfront where the vehicle will be stored and whether they coordinate directly with insurance assessors — it saves a step later.
Should I move my car before the police arrive?
If it's safe and legally allowed at the scene, move it out of a live traffic lane and document the original position with photos first. Leave it in place if there are injuries or if you're unsure.
Do I need to call the police for a minor bump?
For minor damage with no injuries, it's not always mandatory, but it's still worth getting a case number if there's any dispute about fault or damage extent for insurance purposes.
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