Being involved in a road traffic accident is stressful at the best of times. However, a hit-and-run can feel especially overwhelming. When the other driver leaves the scene without sharing their details, it can leave you shocked, confused, and unsure of what to do next.

In this guide, we explain what legally counts as a hit-and-run in the UK and outline the key steps you should take immediately to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.

What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run?

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to meet their legal responsibilities and leaves the scene.

Under UK law, motorists must:

* Stop after an accident.
* Provide their name, address, and vehicle registration details to anyone with reasonable grounds to request them.
* Share insurance information if required.
* Report the incident to the police within 24 hours if details cannot be exchanged at the scene.
* Offer reasonable assistance if someone is injured, including calling emergency services if necessary.

These rules exist to ensure accountability and safety for everyone involved. Unfortunately, some drivers flee due to panic, lack of insurance, drink or drug driving, or other legal concerns.

If you find yourself in this situation, acting quickly and calmly can make a significant difference.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Move to a Safe Location

Your first priority should always be safety.

If your vehicle is still roadworthy, carefully move it out of traffic to a safe area such as the hard shoulder or a nearby side road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other motorists.

Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 999 immediately and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it is wise to have them assessed by professionals.

Contact the Police

Report the incident to the police as soon as possible. A formal police report is essential, particularly if:

* Someone has been injured
* The other driver failed to stop
* You were unable to exchange details

Providing accurate information quickly increases the chances of identifying the vehicle responsible. A police reference number will also support your insurance claim.

Record All Available Information

While waiting for the police, write down everything you can remember. Important details include:

* The make, model, and colour of the vehicle
* Full or partial registration number
* Direction the vehicle travelled
* Time and location of the incident

If there were witnesses nearby, ask for their contact details. If it is safe to do so, take photographs of the damage, road layout, and any debris. The more evidence you gather, the stronger your case will be.

Inform Your Insurance Provider

Notify your insurer as soon as possible, even if you were not at fault. Provide them with the police reference number and all collected evidence.

Depending on your policy, your insurer may arrange:

* Vehicle recovery
* Roadside assistance
* A courtesy car
* Transport home if your vehicle cannot be driven

Understanding your cover will help you move forward with minimal disruption.

Vehicle Recovery After a Hit-and-Run in London

If your car is not safe to drive, professional recovery support is essential.

At WhiteRecovery, we provide reliable 24-hour car recovery and roadside assistance across London. Whether your insurer arranges the tow or you contact us directly, our experienced team can transport your vehicle quickly and safely.

We understand how distressing accidents can be. That is why we aim to make the recovery process straightforward, efficient, and stress-free. Acting quickly is crucial, and understanding the importance of emergency towing in accident recovery can help prevent further vehicle damage, reduce roadside risks, and ensure you are transported to safety without unnecessary delay.

Final Thoughts

A hit-and-run accident can leave more than just physical damage. It often brings emotional shock and uncertainty. While no one expects to be involved in such an incident, knowing what steps to take can make the situation far more manageable.

Focus on safety first, report the incident promptly, gather evidence, and seek professional recovery support when needed. Acting calmly and methodically will help protect both your well-being and your legal rights.

If you ever require 24/7 vehicle recovery or roadside assistance in London, WhiteRecovery is here to help whenever you need us.