What if I am involved in a car accident?

Being in an accident can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can help ensure safety and make the claims process smoother.

Prioritise Safety & Report the Incident

• Check for injuries – If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately at 112 or 999.

• Move to a safe area – If it's safe, move vehicles out of traffic.

• Report to the Gardaí – Accidents involving injuries, serious damage, or disputes should be reported to the Garda station.

Gather Essential Information

Collecting the right details at the scene is crucial for your claim. Make sure to document:

• Vehicle details – Registration numbers of all vehicles involved.

• Driver & witness information – Names and contact details.

• Insurance details – Policy numbers and insurers of other parties.

• Garda information – Names and badge numbers of attending officers (if applicable).

• Photographic evidence – Take clear photos of:

  • Vehicle damage
  • The accident scene, including road conditions
  • Positions of all vehicles

Tip - If it’s safe to do so, record a brief video of the scene to capture additional details.

Contact 123.ie's Claims Team

Once you have gathered the necessary details, report the accident to 123.ie as soon as possible.

Call (01) 290 1999 – Our Claims Team is available to guide you through the next steps. Your claims handler will provide further assistance, including guidance on repairs and next steps.

Remember that you can always send an email to motorclaims123@ie.rsagroup.com for updates on an existing claim.

Important Do’s and Don’ts

What You Should Do

• Document the Scene – Take photos and note important details.

• Exchange Details – Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved.

• Report to Your Insurer – Contact 123.ie as soon as possible to begin the claims process.

What You Should Avoid

• Do not admit fault – Liability should be determined by insurers and authorities.

• Do not move vehicles unnecessarily – Unless they are blocking traffic or pose a danger.

• Do not authorise repairs before contacting us – Your claims handler will guide you on the next steps.

• Do not leave the scene - Wait for the Gardaí to arrive if there is a personal injury involved.

Handling the Aftermath of a Car Accident

Acting calmly and efficiently after an accident helps ensure everyone’s safety and speeds up your insurance claim. By following the right steps, you can protect yourself legally and financially.

If you need further assistance, contact our Claims Team at (01) 290 1999 or visit our Making a Claim page.