Collisions involving another party

After such an event it is important to do the following:

• Note the other party's [this could be a pedestrian, cyclist or driver] name, address and registration number.
  
  
• Note the name, phone number and address of at least two witnesses if possible.
  
  
• Make a rough sketch of the collision while it's fresh in your memory.
  
  
• If you have a camera integrated into your mobile, take pictures of the immediate aftermath of the collision, particularly where the other party ended up. Otherwise, come back later with a camera, this will allow you to record road defects and general layout.
  
  
• Report the incident to the police or ask someone else to do so. Note down the name of any police officers attending the scene, their station and if applicable a 'CAD' (Computer Aided Despatch) or 'CRIS' (Crime Reference Information System) number. Having a number will help you to trace the progress of your case.
  
  
• Write down or record a message on your phone describing what happened. Do this as soon as possible after the collision, whilst it is still fresh in your mind.
  
  
• See a doctor, even if you feel OK. Injuries sometimes show up later and a doctor's examination can provide vital evidence.

It is important not to admit responsibility (e.g. say sorry) as this may count against you later in any compensation or insurance claim. Courts often divide up blame between parties and allocate damages accordingly.  Where the party suing ('the Claimant') is held to be partially to blame, this is called 'contributory negligence'. Do, however, note any admission by the driver.

Note: It does not matter if a witness is known personally to you or is related, though it may mean not so much weight is given to their evidence as if they were simply a bystander.